Well-known Catholic priest passes away

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — The Lexington church community is mourning the unexpected loss of Father Norman Fischer, who passed away Sunday night. The Catholic Diocese of Lexington announced his death, which has left a significant void among the parishioners and students he served.

Father Fischer was the pastor at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church and the chaplain for Lexington Catholic High School. At the time of his passing, he was on a sabbatical, assisting the Catholic Heart Work Camp in Wilmington, Delaware.

In response to the news, St. Peter Claver Catholic Church held a special Mass in his honor last night. This morning, tributes continue to pour in online, with hundreds of people sharing their heartfelt memories and expressing their grief on Facebook.

Mayor Linda Gorton paid tribute to Father Fischer, saying, “Father Norman Fischer had a smile that would light up the room. His passion for people and service will be missed.” Former University of Kentucky head basketball coach John Calipari also expressed his condolences, stating, “Father Norman was not only a dear friend, but also a brother in Christ.”

Father Fischer’s impact on the community, both through his pastoral work and his involvement with the youth, will be deeply missed by all who knew him.