The school district is honoring the former teacher, coach, principal and mentor by dedicating the gymnasium at the new high school in his name.

"I only thought you had to die first," laughed Fischer.

Fischer has been a staple of the Tombstone community since 1946. After graduating from the old Tombstone High School in 1955, he went on to attend the University of Arizona to pursue an education degree.

After graduating, he taught in Fort Huachuca. In 1963 he returned to his former high school until his retirement in 1991.

In Fischer's 28 years at Tombstone High, he filled many roles. He started as a teacher and head coach for both basketball and football.

During his tenure as head basketball and football coach, both teams posted some of the best seasons the school has ever seen.

In basketball, Fischer led the team to conference titles and nine appearances in the state playoffs.

In his last two seasons as football coach, the team posted back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in 17 years.

After eight years he was asked to take over as the school's principal. Fischer agreed, but with one condition – he wanted to remain the head basketball coach.

His wish was granted, and he continued as head coach for the next seven years. His reign as principal lasted 20 years.

"I have always said that a principal's job is different from anyone else's," said Fischer. "When you wake up in the morning you don't know what's going to happen that day."

After Fischer's retirement he left Tombstone and moved his family to Tucson where he currently resides.

Fischer's former secretary of two years, and family friend, Betty Ridge, proposed the idea of naming the new gym after him.

Tombstone Unified School District Superintendent Karl Uterhardt was more than receptive to the idea when approached about it.

"He did a lot of things for the city of Tombstone," said Uterhardt. "He has been a really dedicated man for the district and students."

Fischer said he's honored by the gym dedication. "I'm really proud and happy," he said. "This is like a dream come true."

The dedication will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, in the Tombstone High School gymnasium located on Yellowjacket Way.

The ceremony will feature five selected speakers, followed by an opportunity for anyone else who wishes to speak.