David Hayden Fleck

David Hayden Fleck

Passed away peacefully on November 9th, 2020, at the age of 84. He was the beloved husband of his high school sweetheart, Janet Fleck, for over 62 years. Loving father of Stuart (Martha) and Jennifer Fleck and proud grandfather of Dane and Case Fleck. Cherished brother of the late Carol Couchenour, and brother-in-law of Joe Couchenour and Gordon Anderson. Dear uncle of Steve Couchenour, Cathy Hensley, Kim Lowry, and Traci Overbergen. Further survived by other loving relatives and friends.

David lived a full life with many interests ranging from family, travel, sports, reading, and community involvement. He was born in Oskaloosa, IA to Harold and Bess Fleck. He graduated from Grinnell College in Iowa and Harvard Law School and went on to have a long and fulfilling career at Foley & Lardner. He served the Milwaukee community through his work on the boards of Riveredge Nature Center, WI Humane Society, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Shoreline Interfaith, and North Shore Congregational Church.

In retirement, David continued his volunteer efforts in the local community while also enjoying his time with friends and family. He was an avid runner, completing 30 plus marathons, one of them being the 100th Boston Marathon. He also enjoyed keeping up to date with the world around him through his newspapers and magazines, oftentimes sharing an item of interest with his family and friends.

Private family services will be held at North Shore Congregational Church, with the option for live-streaming. Please visit www.feerickfuneralhome.com for details and link information. Memorials in David's name may be made to North Shore Congregational Church, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, or WI Humane Society.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Nov. 12 to Nov. 15, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for David Fleck

Sponsored by Feerick Funeral Home - Shorewood.

9 Entries

Michael Mountan

November 30, 2020

Janet, Stuart and Jennie,

I am very sorry to hear about David's passing. My Mom and Dad often spoke about their 50+ year friendship with the Fleck's that began in a small apartment complex in Shorewood. I have many vivid memories of our times together especially during Indian Guides and on a number of North Shore church adventures (often with the terrific Lange family). More recently I heard how much David enjoyed watching his grandsons and the Anthony boys compete for my beloved Blue Dukes of Whitefish Bay High School.

David was a true gentleman and a great friend.

All the best to you and the entire family.

Stuart-I hope to see you in person next year for our 40th high school reunion.

Rory Sernoe

November 17, 2020

To Dane and Case and the Fleck family
I was sorry to hear of your grandfather's passing. My condolences to both of you and your family.
Rory sernoe

Carrie Delgado

November 17, 2020

As Jennie Fleck’s neighbor for many years, I have several fond memories of her Dad. I could immediately tell he was a wise and kind man. He cared deeply for his family!

Jennie, my thoughts are with you and your family. ♥

November 16, 2020

I will always be blessed to have met David Fleck. He truly inspired me in my life. He will always be the most intelligent and kind man that I will know. I worked with him and for him at Foley & Lardner for a number of years and during those years I learned immensely from him. I learned about his great values for family and nature. I saw Jenny and Stuart grow up as well as having the great pleasure of know his partner an wife Janet. He inspired me to run my very first marathon, and I have been running them every since because of him. He was brilliant in the workplace and there was no one that "could hold a candle to him". He would always find a great solution to any problem a client would need. It was an honor to work for him, and I was able to tell him so last year before this COVID arrived. He told me once "never to assume anything" and these sure are words of wisdom to live by. I will always remember him because of his great character and being. His great love for animals will always be remembered, especially Mr. Riley, whom I had the great pleasure of meeting. I am sadened by his passing but he will always have a place in my heart wherever I go.
My heartfelt feelings go out to each and every member of his wonderful family.

Penelope J. Wagner

Judith Larsen

November 15, 2020

David and Janet were some of our earliest friends in Milwaukee and Riveredge. I recall that they cleaned their basement so that our belongings might be stored there while we were still looking for a place to live. David was an excellent Board Member and President of Riveredge Nature Center back it was beginning and growing. He will be long remembered for his generous and fun-loving spirit. My condolences to his family

Cathy Hensley

November 13, 2020

A treasure to all that knew him and called him family. He will be missed greatly.