Christel B. Fish

Christel B. Fish, 92, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 11, 2026. She was born on January 27, 1934, in Berlin, Germany, to the late Ernst and Greta Bachmann.

Christel lived an extraordinary and remarkable life. Raised in Berlin during World War II, she experienced the hardships of war at a young age, experiences that helped shape her into the strong, independent, and resilient woman she became. She later moved to the United States, where she built a life and family of her own.

Christel married Jesse Fish, and together they settled in Columbia, where they raised their family. She was a dedicated and hardworking woman who managed the local Pic and Pay Shoes for more than 40 years before retiring.

Outside of work, Christel found joy in caring for her yard and growing beautiful flowers. She also treasured the many trips to the lake with her children. Those journeys were always an adventure, as Christel seemed to have a lifelong “need for speed” whenever she was behind the wheel.

Christel is survived by her daughter, Shirley Welch; her son, Ron Fish; grandchildren, Christopher Fish and Nicole Welch; and great-grandchildren, Cameron Fish, Isabella Fish, Caleb Fish, and Logan Fish.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernst and Greta Bachmann; her beloved husband, Jesse Fish; and her son, Thomas M. Fish.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.