Obituary for Robert M. Fleming

A life of love, dedication, and service

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Fleming, who departed this world on May 12,2025 at the age of eighty-seven. Bob was a beloved member of the community, whose life was a tapestry woven with love, dedication, and service to others.

Early Life

Robert Jeremiah Michael Fleming was born on December 8,1937 in Brooklyn, NY to William and Beatrice Fleming. His older brother, Bill, was not only his brother but also his best friend. Growing up in Greenpoint, he exhibited an early passion for independence and helping others, which would become a cornerstone of his life. He and his brother sold flowers together, delivered books and took on many odd jobs early in life. Following his graduation from vocational high school, he entered the United States Marine Corps. He served as an electrician attached to the 8th Engineering Battalion in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, receiving an honorable discharge after his service.

Career

Bob’s professional journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to the New York City Fire Department. Beginning his career as a Firefighter in Brooklyn in 1961, he thrived in his position at Ladder Co.146/ Engine Co. 229 where he spent almost 20 years climbing many ariel ladders, putting out lots of fires. He rose through the ranks, earning the promotion to Lieutenant in 1980 and was stationed at Engine Co. 89/ Ladder Co. 50 in the Bronx, where he spent the remainder of his career, retiring after 35 years. He was not known to shy away from complex multiple alarm fires or dangerous ladder rescues. He loved what he did.

Personal Life

Beyond his professional life, he continued to put out fires at home with a large and growing family. Bob was a devoted husband to Kay, his wife of 63 years who preceded him in death just 242 days earlier. He was a proud father to Robert, Ann Marie, Steven, Eileen, James, and Thomas. Through marriage his family grew to include Eric Nelson, Barbara-Anne Fleming, Jennifer Fleming, and Wendy Fleming. He was a proud grandfather to Lauren Nelson-Mammarella, Daniel Fleming, Jeremy Nelson, Kevin Fleming, Aislinn Fleming, Taylor Ephraim, Andrew Nelson, Ryan Ephraim, and Connor Ephriam. He saw his roles as father and grandfather as his most important and rewarding. He cherished moments spent with loved ones and always made time for their favorite activities, as long as it included watching old movies or anything on Turner Classics. Bob’s kindness, generosity, and sense of humor brought joy to all who knew him. He was always willing to lend a hand- and then assign the task to the kid that was in the closest proximity.

As his kids moved away from home to begin their lives in Las Vegas, Indiana, and California, he enjoyed traveling to these exciting destinations, in addition to many others.

Service

The funeral service for Bob will be held at St. Aidan’s Catholic Church 11:15 am on May 16, 2025, with a gathering of family and friends to celebrate his remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Catholic Health Good Shepherd Hospice in Bob's honor.

Bob will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the indelible mark he left on the lives of all who knew him. May he rest in peace, reunited with the love of his life, Kay.