Robert L. Fleming

April 4, 2011

Attorney Robert Lewis Fleming of Dallas, age 91, died on Monday at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Dallas, on October 25, 1919, he was the only child of Dr. John Carl Fleming and Miriam Harris Fleming. He graduated as the valedictorian of Dallas Borough High School in 1937. He earned his education at Harvard College, earning a degree in history in 1941. After graduating, Bob enlisted in the Navy and was assigned to Patrol Squadron 81, for which he flew amphibious "Black Cat" Catalina sea planes in the Pacific. Bob received numerous decorations, including a Silver Star medal. He was awarded the Silver Star for heroism displayed during heavy enemy fire from the Japanese in rescuing two drowned airmen in the Western Solomons. During his military service, Bob married Eleanor Jane Duncklee of Mystic, Conn., in August 1943. Bob graduated from Harvard Law School in the fall of 1948. He was admitted to the Luzerne County Bar in 1949 and practiced law for the next 50 years. During his lifetime, Bob was active in church, school and community affairs. He was a longtime member of the Dallas Methodist Church. He also acted as chairman for the Back Mountain Memorial Library Auction in 1963, as well as volunteering for various other community organizations. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Eleanor, his seven children, their spouses and 12 grandchildren. His children are: Susan Fitzpatrick and husband Hugh, Rhode Island; Peggy Fleming and husband Ray, Illinois; Jean Fleming and husband Arthur, Massachusetts; Lucy Messersmith and husband Mike, Dallas; John Fleming and wife Kathie, Connecticut; Nancy Stephenson and husband Rick, Philadelphia; Bill Fleming and wife Naomi, Virginia. His grandchildren are: Debbie, Becky and Kerry Fitzpatrick; Melinda and Robert Karalius; Adam Posey; Michael and Megan Messersmith; John Fleming III; Elena Stephenson; Ben and Sarah Fleming. Calling hours are from 2 to 4 p.m. on Friday, April 8, at the Richard H. Disque Funeral Home, Dallas. The funeral will immediately follow at the funeral home, conducted by Deacon Patrick Massino, chaplain for the Hospice of the Sacred Heart. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Dallas United Methodist Church or the Back Mountain Memorial Library. The burial will be held privately at Arlington National Cemetery.