Bob Fisher, the former owner of Bob’s Shoe Repair and a dedicated advocate for affordable housing, has been named the Grand Marshal for the 2024 James J. Hill Days Parade.
The Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce made the announcement recently, honoring Fisher’s decades of service to the community.
Asked about the honor, Fisher stated, “The way I was asked, it was clear I had a choice. I thought about it for a minute or so then I looked at Becky Pierson and smiled and said yes. But I actually thought about how in the heck was I going to actually do it. I realized it was a great honor and then I though about I needed to be humble and try to not shine the light on me but give God all the glory.”
Bob’s Shoe Repair
Bob’s Shoe Repair in Wayzata has been staple in the community for over three decades, owned and operated by Bob Fisher for 35 years before he sold it to Dave and Becca Young in May 2015 in order to retire from the business.
Known for its quality craftsmanship and personalized service, the shop is a go-to destination for residents seeking shoe repair and care.
Prior to starting his own business, Fisher managed the shoe repair service at The Foursome in Wayzata for eight years, honing the skills that made Bob’s Shoe Repair a trusted name in town.
Bob’s Sleep Out
In 1996, Fisher founded Bob’s Sleepout to raise awareness of affordable housing and homelessness issues in the western suburbs, supported by Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners.
From Thanksgiving to Christmas each year, from 1995 to 2006, Fisher slept in a tent in his front yard to draw attention to the cause.
The effort has evolved into The Sleepout, an annual event that has raised over $23 million and involving tens of thousands of individuals in fighting homelessness.
Bob’s Health
Earlier this summer, Bob suffered a stroke that left him facing a challenging road to recovery.
After spending several weeks in rehabilitation, he has recently returned to his home in Wayzata.
His return marked a significant milestone in his healing journey, and friends and family gathered to greet him with an outpouring of love and support.
The warm welcome from those closest to him was a testament to the strong bonds he has built within the community, offering encouragement as he continues his recovery.
In light of Bob’s recent stroke, a community-driven fundraiser has been organized to help cover the costs of adding accessibility features to his home.
The initiative aims to ensure Bob can navigate his living space with greater ease and comfort as he continues his recovery, and donations are being accepted via Go Fund Me.
The Parade
The parade, organized by the Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Sunday, Sept. 8, as part of the annual James J. Hill Days celebration.
For more information on The Sleepout and how to get involved, visit www.IOCP.org.
