Obituary published on Legacy.com by St. John's Family Funeral Home & Crematory on Mar. 5, 2026.
Charles Robert "Carl" Fleischmann, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, at the age of 88 in
Saint Augustine, Florida. Born on November 23, 1937, in
Astoria, New York, Charles, affectionately known as "Carl," led a life rich in experiences, love, and creativity.
Carl's journey into the world of mechanical drafting began with his education in Germany, where he honed his skills that would later serve him well in the aerospace industry. After returning to the United States, he started his career at Grumman Aircraft Company in Bethpage, New York. Carl was instrumental in both the designing of the F14 and the Lunar Module. Carl transferred to the Grumman plant in Saint Augustine, where he continued to make significant contributions to the field.
It was in Saint Augustine that Carl met the love of his life, Gloria Clementi, a talented singer and dancer at the local Holiday Inn. They were married on November 7, 1992, and over their 35 years together, they created a tapestry of memories filled with adventure, laughter, and deep affection. Their life together was a testament to the power of love and companionship.
After a period of downsizing at Grumman, Carl embraced a new chapter as a property manager, a role he approached with the same diligence and care that defined his earlier work. His passion for travel took him to the Caribbean Islands, where he captured breathtaking images, sharing many of these moments with his family. This love for photography blossomed in his daughter, Linda, and the two often exchanged photographs, building a shared legacy of creativity. He enjoyed yearly trips to his daughter and son in law's home in Pennsylvania where he enjoyed the fresh air, swimming pool and visiting great restaurants and casinos in the area. Carl had a passion and strong interest in UFOs. He had a large collection of UFO books and collectibles.
Charles was preceded in death by his brother, Fred Fleischmann and mother, Elizabeth Fleischmann. Carl leaves behind his devoted wife, Gloria Fleischmann; his beloved daughter, Linda Carfagna (and husband Tom); his grandsons, Thomas (Jessica) and Brandon (Caroline) Carfagna; and his great-grandson, Luca Carfagna. Each of them will carry forward his spirit, his stories, and his passion for capturing the beauty of life through photography.
In honoring Carl's remarkable life, a graveside service will be held at 12:30 pm on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Evergreen with Sam Stevens officiating. Those unable to attend can view the live-stream by going to: https://iframe.dacast.com/live/2a7a09ae1c0559a83ef537e05e6a14a6/0d926f14-3fd3-923f-c556-1f0bb777106f.
As we bid farewell to Carl, let us remember him not only for his achievements but for the love he shared and the joy he found in the simple pleasures of life. His gentle spirit and artistic eye will be profoundly missed.
St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.