Thomas Gerald Fissler, an esteemed international financier and venture capitalist, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away in November 2024 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was 74.

Born in 1950 in Bad Kreuznach, Germany, Thomas grew up in an entrepreneurial family renowned for producing world-class cookware under the Fissler name. From an early age, he embraced the values of hard work and innovation that defined his family's legacy.

He earned a master’s degree from the prestigious Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) in Munich, established in 1472. During his time at LMU, his keen intellect and expertise in finance began to shape the course of his remarkable career.

After completing his MBA, Thomas joined his family’s business in Idar-Oberstein, Germany, where he played a pivotal role in advancing Fissler’s legacy of excellence in cookware. In the 1980s, he co-founded IDP Investments, a private venture capital firm based in Germany and Switzerland.

Thomas was celebrated for his integrity, business acumen, and ability to forge lasting relationships. In 1998, he and his family relocated to Boston, where he collaborated with Downer & Co., a prominent venture capital firm. Alongside his friend and associate, Bob Reilly, he made several landmark investments, including being one of the earliest investors in Staples.

He had the privilege of working alongside many individuals whose knowledge and loyalty he deeply valued, including Marilyn Masen, Kenneth A. Schultz, Mike Hession, Patty Donatiello, René Elste, Todd Nichols and Gesine Hernnbrodt, among others.

Known for his quiet strength and steadfast character, Thomas was a reliable friend. He maintained a loyal circle of friends in both Europe and the United States, including his beloved brother, Ernst Rudolph Fissler, and his longtime lawyer and confidant, Dr. Friedrich Hey. He shared a special bond with his wife Ann's family in Switzerland and treasured lifelong friendships cultivated overseas, particularly with Eva and Robert Kunz and Martin Niebergall.

In Boston, Thomas cherished his friendships with the Haywards, the Plapingers, the Ortels, the Mastons, the Oliveira family, and Dr. Wynn Schwartz.

Beyond his professional achievements, Thomas found joy in skiing, workouts with his trainer Chris Ward, playing golf with Ann and their pro, Dave Lane, and indulging his passion for collecting and racing cars. A lifelong fan of The Rolling Stones, he often recounted with pride the time he met the band in the early 1960s on a train from England.

As a devoted husband to his beloved Ann and proud father to three children—Mariana Fissler, Patrick Fissler, and Alexandra Dyer—his greatest joy came from family. His six grandchildren adored him, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Thomas will be remembered for his generous spirit, kind heart, and exceptional sense of humor. He was a true gentleman, a quality admired and emulated by many. His legacy is one of love, integrity, and unwavering commitment to family and friendship.

A gathering of love and remembrance will be held in late spring 2025 to honor Thomas’s life and the profound impact he made.

Thomas Fissler leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew him. Taken too soon, he will be deeply missed and loved forever.

The family wishes to thank Thomas’ long term Primary Care Doctor, Thomas A. Fry, for his never ending care and commitment to Thomas.