Harold Vischer Family Scholarship

Scholarship Criteria: Given to one or two deserving upperclassmen, preferably students who are already married.

Scholarship Story:

The Harold Vischer Family Scholarship was established in 1980 by Harold H. Vischer, Sr., a respected business leader, devoted family man, and faithful follower of Christ. Through this scholarship, Harold sought to invest in future generations of students and encourage them as they prepared for lives of service, leadership, and professional excellence.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1914, Harold graduated from the University of Toledo with a degree in Business Administration. He began his career with Firestone Tire & Rubber Company, where he eventually rose to the position of Vice President of Sales. After 24 years with Firestone, he joined Bandag in 1961 and became a key figure in the company's remarkable growth. During his nineteen years with Bandag, the company expanded from approximately 40 plants in the United States and three other countries to more than 900 plants in 93 countries around the world.
Harold's contributions to the tire industry earned him widespread respect.

Known for his expertise, dedication, and integrity, he served on numerous industry organizations and was inducted into the Tire Industry Hall of Fame in 1988. Industry publications remembered him as a leader who played a critical role in the development and international growth of Bandag during its formative years.

Despite his professional accomplishments, Harold's family remembers him first as a man of faith. His son Bob described him as, “a God-loving man who gave honor to the Lord for what success he had.” Harold was a charter member of Irish Hills Community Church and faithfully served with the Gideons for more than forty years. His Christian faith shaped both his personal life and his approach to leadership.

Family was also central to Harold's life. He and his wife, DeNell, were married for more than fifty-seven years and raised a family that included three sons and two girls whom they raised as daughters. Harold especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and those who knew him remembered his love for family, gardening, and encouraging others.

The Harold Vischer Family Scholarship reflects the values that guided Harold throughout his life: faith in God, commitment to family, diligence in work, and investment in future generations. Through this scholarship, his legacy continues to support deserving students as they pursue their education and prepare for lives of meaningful service and leadership.