Brad A. Fister, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on October 19, 2026. Born on November 14, 1957, in Waterloo, Iowa, Brad lived a life defined by dedication, service, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
The beloved son of the late Jeanne Sentman Fister and Robert Eugene Fister, Brad was raised in a family that instilled in him the importance of community, honesty and integrity. He graduated from Central High School in Waterloo in 1976 before continuing his education at University of Northern Iowa, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1980.
Driven by a strong sense of duty and a desire to serve others, Brad began his professional career as an adjuster for Grinnell Mutual while also serving as an auxiliary police officer in Waterloo. These early experiences strengthened his passion for law enforcement and ultimately set him on the path toward a distinguished career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
In 1988, Brad achieved his dream when he was accepted into the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Over the course of his 27-year career as a Special Agent, he tackled some of the most challenging assignments, ranging from white-collar crime, drug and gang offenses, surreptitious surveillance and entry, and healthcare fraud. Brad’s contributions extended far beyond casework. As a certified firearms instructor, he shared his knowledge and expertise with fellow agents. He served on United States Attorney General Janet Reno’s security detail in the late 1990’s, and he also was appointed as project manager in the construction of the FBI Chicago field office, from its inception planning stages to completion in 2006.
Following retirement from the FBI in 2014, Brad continued to apply his extensive investigative experience at Humana, HCA, and Eastman Chemical. Throughout his career, he was known for his dedication, professionalism and unwavering integrity. For Brad, his work was more than a profession; it was a calling.
Outside of his professional life, Brad was a lifelong and devoted Chicago Cubs fan. One of his most cherished memories was having the opportunity to attend Game 3 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field. After more than a century without a championship, being able to witness the Cubs compete in the World Series during their historic championship season was an unforgettable experience and a dream come true.
Beyond his remarkable career, Brad was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his cherished wife of 20 years, Patricia Weske Clancy Fister; his beloved son, Ian (Alexis Sadicario) Clancy; sister, Lesa Fister Foss; nephew, Bill (Lauren) Foss and his many dear friends.
Brad is predeceased by his parents and his brother-in-law, Robert Foss.
Brad’s life was a testament to the values he held dear; loyalty, service, compassion, and integrity. His dedication to his family, his career, and the principles he believed in leaves behind a lasting legacy.
Though he will be deeply missed, Brad will be remembered for the life he lived, the people he touched, and the difference he made in the world. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Brad had a deep compassion for animals, therefore in lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you please donate in Brad’s memory to your local humane society or the animal shelter of your choice.
There are no services at this time.
