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William J. Fleming

William Fleming Obituary

Bill Fleming, 52, of La Quinta, CA, died suddenly of a heart attack at his home in La Quinta on January 10, 2007. Bill was a kind, loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. Bill was principal of Cesar Chavez School in Coachella and was Principal of the Year in his district in 2006. He loved his family, his job and always wanted to help others reach their potential. He was fun-loving and lived every minute of his life to the fullest.

He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Sandy; two children, James (Bear) and Maggie; his nine siblings and his loving mother, Alice Fleming of San Diego.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 15, 2007 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in La Quinta, CA. Donations in his memory may be sent to Cesar Chavez ASB, Memo: Athletic Fund at Cesar Chavez Elementary School, 49601 Ave. De Oro, Coachella, CA, 92236.

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

Published by The Desert Sun on Jan. 13, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for William Fleming

Sponsored by Arlyn Sams.

70 Entries

October 15, 2017

I am so sorry to read of Bill Flemings pasting away. He was a wonderful human being. If there is a way I could say hi to Sandy please pass my email to her. This is Nanette Butler [email protected]

Cindy Orantes

August 14, 2007

Hi my name is Cindy Orantes,
Unfortunately I just learned about Mr.Flemings passing. I was in Mr.Fleming's class 3rd and 4th grade class in 1992-1994. I must say that he was like a father to me, he guided me, comforted me, amd always built confidence in me when I thought i had none. It was beacause of him that I believed in myself when I felt like noone else cared to. He was by far the best teacher I have ever had. One of the best human being I have ever met. I never got to express to him how much I appreciated him and thank him for all that he did. He made learning so worth it, he made our class feel like a family rather than just a class full of students. I wish I could have told him how much he meant to me. I'll always have him in my heart, because for the past 9 years there hadn't been one day that went by that I didnt think about him and how much easier he made life. I'll never forget how protective he was of all of us. He gave me the courage to do new things and I knew he would always be proud of me no matter the outcome. I will always remember his kindness, generousity,his bright spirit, how much of a charger fan he was,his encouragement,his big bright smile, and the way he always pushed us to accomplish anything we wanted to..I will always love and miss you Mr.Fleming, I know that the Lord has you very close to him...To the Family, I send my deepest sympathy for such a great loss ,not only in your family, but in the world..he was truly a rare Gem, irreplaceable..he loved doing what he did and I feel so priveledged to have had him in my life for the period of time that I did, I'll never forget how he attended my 8th grade promotion, he made us all feel special.

Love,
Cindy

Kristin Stanley

April 26, 2007

There is not a day that passes that I don't think about Bill. I never realized the huge impact he had on my life unitl he was gone. I find strength in my students and collegues because they feel the same emptiness. I will try my best to fill that void and keep Bill's spirit alive through my teaching. I strive to become the brilliant and caring educator that he was. He was a dear friend and inspiring leader.

March 27, 2007

Halloween 2006

March 27, 2007

Announcing the importance of the Bill Fleming Award of Science Excellence

March 27, 2007

Halloween 2005

March 27, 2007

Josiah Gonzalez is the first recipient of the Bill Fleming Award

March 27, 2007

Josiah Gonzalez receives the Bill Fleming Award of Science Excellence. He is from Desert Mirage High School, experiment is called Gamers Anonymous?

March 27, 2007

KARLA AND ESMERALDA MONTANEZ, ESPINOZA

March 11, 2007

MR. FLEMING REST IN PEACE. I WAS IN CESAR CHAVEZ ELEMENTARY 6 YEARS AGO. AND HE WAS A NICE MAN. A CARING PRINCIPAL. HE WAS THE BEST. AND NO ONE CAN REPLACE HIM. TO HIS FAMILY I PRAY FOR YOU

Edwin Tanzi

February 15, 2007

To The Fleming Family:
Bill was a caring, genuine, and honorable man. His laughter, jokes, and sense of humor will always be remembered. All of you must have been very proud to have been able to call him husband, dad, brother, uncle, or cousin.
As my boss, I have felt very blessed to be under his guidance. Bill always treated me as a professional. He respected my views and opinions even when he might have not always agreed. Bill never micro managed. He made me feel that he had confidence in me, as an educator of 32 years.
Bill's leadership qualities are rare among principals. He was an excellent leader who valued his staff, sat among us, and always made us feel appreciated. Again, rare among principals of today. He was a "teacher's principal".
I will deeply miss Bill but know that his energy and light will live on for all those he touched while on his journey here on earth.

Peace and Blessings to all of you,

Ed Tanzi (Grade 4 Teacher)

February 11, 2007

catching up with newspapers since away. found the obiturary and picture and was so sad to see a young, smiling, good looking husband, father and family man taken away way too early. the questions is WHY??
being in education myself it would have been a wonderful pleasure to work with william.
my belated condolences to the families. your klaus von hagen.

Jim Barry

February 3, 2007

To all of the Fleming Family-
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
My thoughts are with you.
Sincerely,
Jim Barry

Barbara Gregory

January 25, 2007

A young man died suddenly. He was a good man,caring and kind, fair-minded and honorable, extraordinary in today's world. He was loved and respected by his family, friends, the children and staff of the school in which he was their principal, and the community and school district whom he most admirably served. It was my privelege to know him in a small way as a volunteer in his school. I too shall miss him. We are all bereft. Bill was there for all of us.

Crystal Corona Castaneda

January 24, 2007

To the fleming family, I am sorry for your lost.Mr. Fleming was my brthers theacher,my brothers only a year younger and I used to visit him vwhen he had Mr.Fleming as his teacher.I remeber him as caring and really cared about his students and help them succedded in everything and never give up.He will be missed and will always be rememberd.I attended cesar chavez when it first open all thru 6th grade that is when he was a teacher.God bless.

Angel gomez

January 24, 2007

Dear Mr.Fleming's family, he was a kind and special man to Cesar chavez Elementary School and everyone around him. He always tried to make you feel special and I know you know more than me about this. One more thing... We will never forget Mr.Fleming he will always be in our hearts. ''REST IN PEACE MR.FLEMING.''

dolores vega

January 22, 2007

Dear Mrs.Fleming and family, I feel really sad about what happened I cried even though i am new to Cecar Chavez school he was such a great principal he always put a smile on my face and i really got to know him because he was my brother's teacher for two years .i really miss him but i know he is in a better place know andthat no matter what happens he will always be in my heart and that i really appreciate what he had done for everybody in the past. Love, Dolores Vega

Christine Bielawa

January 22, 2007

Dear Mrs. Fleming, Bear and Maggie,
I was very sorry to hear of the death of your husband and your father. Please accept our deepest sympathies. I was truly overwhelmed by how many people came to St. Francis Church Monday the 15th to offer their respects. It showed just how many lives Bill touched in his short time on this earth.
If there is anything we can do for you, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Sincerely,
Christine, Breanne and Kirstyn Bielawa (St. Francis parish and LQHS)

Alejandra Alarcon

January 19, 2007

Mr.Fleming was like my best Buddy.Everyday I would go to Cesar Chavez to go talk to him.I enjoyed talking to him.He left me with a smile on my face :) He always ask me about my brother Rocky and And my siter Gaby.He always supported them.My family was so sad when they heard the bad news. I didn't understand very well! I would think that he was always in his office but something told me he wasn't there.Time passes and I find out that he isn't coming back but that he is in a better place. I miss him Mr. Felming my best buddy.

Steve Tierney

January 19, 2007

From Flushing NY to San Diego. Sea World and beyond. Bill met Sandy there i think in 1977? 27 years of happy marrige...not many persons have that!
Sandy and kids...God will bless all your journey...one and all each and every day until that you're comforted

Chris Lore

January 19, 2007

Fleming Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of playing floor hockey at Standley Park with Billy. You always wanted Billy on your team because of his athleticism, unselfishness and incredible work ethic. It seemed like he never got tired. As I think back on those days, one thing really stands out. Whenever I saw Billy he always asked how my family was doing. He did this with absolute sincerity looking me straight in the eye really caring. What a wonderful man. I was blessed for knowing him.

Thomas Bell

January 19, 2007

Dear Sandy, James, Maggie, Mrs. Fleming, Kathy, Mike, Patty, Tommy, Timmy, Bryan, Moira, Kieran, and Keith - it was bittersweet joy to see all of you and your families on Monday. I think most everyone has the same unanswerable questions. But that we know Billy's with his Dad and his Father in a better place can help. I have so many fond memories of Billy and you all. I need to thank the Lore's for having those noisy office pool parties next door each July 4th which made it possible to get to know you. Billy was one inexhaustible reserve of goodness. I never saw him get mad, or even upset. I remember playing floor hockey all those years up at Standley. I played defense. Billy would play forward. When we were on opposite teams, Billy would come down the off wing, and he had developed this little head fake, like he might cut inside, but that he was actually going to cut outside and go around me. He could easily have done it; he was faster than me (who wasn't?). Instead he actually would take it inside and wind up with a great shot on goal on his forehand, while I stumbling after the fake to the outside. Well, he pulled that one once too often, and I vowed to cure him of it. The next time, I wouldn't fall for it, and I'd be ready for the move to the inside. It came, he moved to the inside, I was waiting for it, and I checked him and dropped him to the floor. I remember thinking that I hit him harder than I wanted to, and that he'd probably get up and kill me. Instead, as he lay on the floor, he looked surprised just for an instant, and then he began to laugh. Nothing flustered him. Nothing upset him. Nothing showed his bad side. Because he didn't have a bad side. I wish I was so much more like him. Sandy, I think you did more to hold up the rest of us than we did for you. Bless you. Bless all you Flemings.

Tom

Natalie Ojeda

January 19, 2007

Dear Mrs Fleming and family,
I really feel sad about Mr Fleming passing away but I know he would really love you alot and he was a great pricapal to us he never let's us down.So I am really sorry and I will always love and miss him forever.
Love,
Natalie Fourth grade

Principal of the Year 2006 Awards Banquet

January 19, 2007

Mr. Pensis giving Bill his Principal of the Year Award-2006

January 19, 2007

Bill and Sandy

January 19, 2007

Celeste Ulloa

January 19, 2007

Mr. Fleming, you were a great principal and we miss you very much, you were always so nice. I'll never forget that smile...
Fourth Grade
Love, Cele

Brianne Ulloa

January 19, 2007

Mr. Fleming, we miss you and Cesar Chavez will never be the same without you. I know you must be sad because the Chargers lost, I'll miss talking to you about football.
Fourth Grade
Love, Bri

April Alarcon

January 18, 2007

Dear Fleming Family,
I am so sorry Mr. Fleming has passed away. He was a great principal everyone loved him. His death was very unexpected to everyone. Mr. Fleming was a great man. Cesar Chavez will never be the same without him.

alejandro tijerina

January 18, 2007

To Mr Flemings Family I am so Sad to here about this sad passing of such wonderful man we are with you with your pain i met mr fleming since kindergaten at cesar chaves i will miss him so much

Andreina Lopez

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs. Fleming and family,
I'm sorry Mr.Fleming passed away.
I'm sad and I miss him,I bet you gu
ys do to.It's not the same without him.I hope you guys feel better.
Love,Andreina Lopez Grade 4

Robert Varga

January 18, 2007

Mr. Fleming,

Your sudden departure has left me with a heavy heart. Your leadership and friendship will never be forgotten or replaced. I will always remember and appreciate the kindness and respect you showed me. Your light-hearted and jovial manner when dealing with the students was an inspiration for me. Your praise and criticism were always an encouragement for me to do better, and push my teaching abilities to the next level. Thank you for everything you have done for me.

Alan Andrade

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs.Fleming and family,
I know how you feel.I hope Mr.Fleming is happy.I miss him so much.I know he will always be with us.Good Bye Mr.Fleming I will miss you.
Alan Andrade Grade Four

Lizeth Magana

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs. Fleming,
All of us feel very sory that Mr. Fleming passed away. Wherever he is at he wants us to be happy, and I know it is hard to be happy but he doesn't want us to be crying either.Mr Fleming is with all of us inside our harts!
Love,
Lizeth Magana
Fourth Grade

Argenis Uribe

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs.Fleming and family, Mr.Fleming was a great guy he always helped us in a time of need he cares a lot for us.
Argenis Uribe 4 Grade

Ariana Carranza

January 18, 2007

I really liked Mr.Fleming. He was a great princapal because he wouldn't be in his ofice every day
he would play with us. The day he died,after school I talked to him and the day I heard the news I cried. But he is in a better place now.

Love,
Ariana Carranza 4TH GRADE

Ernesto Navarrete

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs.Fleming and other members of the family,
Mr.Fleming was a good prson he other when they need somthing he would get balls down from the the roof.He was a good princepal.
love Ernesto fouth grad.

Yurema Arvizu

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs.Fleming,
Mr.Fleming was the greatest princepal we ever had.

Rebekah Lapena

January 18, 2007

Mr.Fleming was really fun and cool he was so funny. he was so nice to everybody in the school!!

Alexis Garcia

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs.Fleaming and family,
Mr.Fleaming was a good person.He did a lot things for the school.He was a good teacher and principal.Mr. Fleaming ment a lot to me.

Jeanie McCloud

January 18, 2007

Dear Mrs. Fleming and family,
I am praying for you during this very difficult time. Bill was a special principal and friend and has made an unforgetable impression on me and my teaching. I will always remember him and try to follow his example. I will always remember how generous he was with his time and how he was always ready to help. Even when it was just hand delivering some tamales which were forgotten at school. Or oferinng a ride home from training sessions. I will never forget the time we had a grade level meeting and a teacher complained that he had been without a clock for a year and his requestes had not been ansered, Mr. Varga just e-mailed Bill, and before he had finished, in walks Bill with a clock. Little things Bill did each and everyday, made our life so much easier and he will be missed and never forgotten
Love always,
Jeanie McCloud

Heather Gregory

January 18, 2007

Bill was a super leader, a super friend and a huge support. I feel so lucky to have known and worked with him. I am so happy I got to also see his out of work side at school retreats. I will never forget how much he helped me in my 5 years at CC and I will always remember his glowing smile. My condolences go out to his family.

Raquel Delgado

January 18, 2007

Bill was a person who always had a smile on his face. There was never a situation where he wasn't able to make me smile. Even now as the fourth graders write stories about him or share their experiences he is still bringing a smile to my face. One memory I have of him, of many, is when the fourth grade went to Legoland last year. We arrived back at school close to ten and Bill was still at the school (sixth grade dinner dance was the same day). The fourth grade teachers waited until all their students were picked up. All were picked up on time but one. Bill offered to stay and wait with that one student so that we could go home and rest even though he had had a long day himself. Obviously we said we would stay and even then he stayed and waited with us. Bill could have left, but being the good natured person that he was he stayed and made sure that student was picked up. I will always remember Bill as being a helpful, smiling, respectful collegue and friend. We will miss you Bill!

January 18, 2007

Barbara Crozier

January 17, 2007

To: The Flemings: When you all moved here (San Diego) back in the 70's you came to my parents home (the Lores) and swam from time to time. Billy was always so sweet and kind and wanted to here all about my life and I was only about ten years old. I will always think of him and all the Flemings with fondness and his memory truly puts a smile on my face. Take care of yourselves. Sincerely Barbara (Lore) Crozier

Vicki (Myers) Schiffer

January 16, 2007

Sandy, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I know that times will not be easy, but trust in the Lord and He will be your strength and comfort as He has been to me and my family. I am praying for you and your children in the days to come.

Ce-Ce Talley

January 16, 2007

Sandy,

Like so many others, I was completely shocked and saddened by Bill’s passing. I guess I thought that he would always be around and that I would always be able to see his smile and hear his contagious laughter. The services yesterday were incredible and an absolute tribute to Bill and to the many lives he touched in so many ways. Our kids grew up together, as did we in a way, and the memories of those years are long. I will never forget him. My love to you, Jamie and Maggie.

Arlyn Sams

January 16, 2007

Sandy, Bear and Maggie- I hope that you found some comfort yesterday when the sanctuary of St Francis was filled beyond capacity. It was indeed a moving testimony to Bill's loving character. Nothing will ever be able to remove my grief and sense of loss. However, if I can live my life through Bill's fine example, perhaps I can always feel close to him. Please keep in touch. I love you.

Edith Sanchez

January 16, 2007

Mr. Fleming will always be remembered by my family and myself as a great man with a big heart. He will be missed by everyone he has touched.

Joyce W. Wheeler

January 16, 2007

Sandy and Maggie and Bear, I think of you prayerfully most of the day and know God feels your heartache and will sustain you as you turn to Him. I'm sorry I can not be there to listen and encourage as you grieve. I am always available when you need specific prayer. Love to you all, Aunt Joyce

shaughn McGinley

January 16, 2007

Dear Sandy, Alice and all the Fleming family, John and I are so sorry to hear about Bill. We are happy to contribute to the fund in
Bill's great name and we understand how loved he was. Shaughn & John McGinley, FBI friends

jim dye

January 15, 2007

Please accept our deepest sympathies from your neighbors jim,robin,felizia,&faith.& if you need anything please don't hesitate to ask.

Norma Carpio

January 15, 2007

To Mr. Fleming's Family:

I will miss him, very much. I was one of the lucky ones who got to work with him, at Cesar Chavez. I just wanted to let you all know that he was a wonderful boss. He was caring and always wanted the best for all of us. I work with Special Ed. and he always excepted our students and staff. He will truly be missed. It is going to be hard to replace him. He was one of a kind. My prayers go to all of you...

rosemary leshko

January 15, 2007

Dear Sandy and children, So sorry to hear of bill's passing. Will always remember the fun times at convention and the bear shows. He will truly be missed by all who knew him. rose leshko and family

Jasmine Wilson

January 15, 2007

Maggie,
This is Jasmine, your lab partner from geology class. The Wilson family is so sorry to hear of your loss. Your such a cool young woman, so I can imagine that your father was the same. My mother told me that your father was a great person to work for. I know times are difficult, please , if you need a friend, I am here for you.Your a great person, I see much success in your future, keep your head up.

William Spanks

January 15, 2007

As a former teacher with the Coachella Valley Unified School District, I got to know Bill during various work shops and in-services. He was an excellent teacher and a fine man. He will be missed by many.

Christina Dollinger

January 15, 2007

To Mr. Fleming's Family,

Mr. Fleming was my favorite teacher at Sea View/ West Shores. I have talked about him every now and then over the years when people ask what teachers have made an impact in my life. I was shocked to hear this information and I send my condolences. I will always remember how much his loving smile and positive attitude changed me and many others. I will never forget him!!

Trisha Grieco

January 14, 2007

Dear Sandy and family, I was so sorry to read of Bill's passing. You may not remember me, but we used to show at the Linda Mullins Teddy Bear Show" and belonged to the Inland Empire Teddy Bear Club. I will forward this on to my daughter Karen Strickland. Both of us extend our love and sympathy to you and your family at this time. I will always remember his smile ,his friendliness, and his helpful spirit. Sincerely, Trisha Grieco

Rita Steffen

January 14, 2007

My condolences to the family. Bill was an outstanding educator. I feel priviledged to have worked with him years ago in CSIN.

Roberto &Gloria Maciel

January 14, 2007

Mr. Fleming will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. It is hard to understand why he left so soon. Our Lord must have a special assignment for him. May he continue to guide our children with the memories of the love and inspirational words he always had for them. To the Fleming family: May the love and support of friends and family help you through this time of sorrow.
Sincerely;
Parents of former students of CC.

Catherine Loy

January 13, 2007

As the days and weeks pass, and you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. I am deeply saddened by the loss of a true friend and colleague.

Catherine Loy
Principal, CVUSD

Kathy Cole

January 13, 2007

Sandy and Bear........Remember your school counselor at Adams School........Mrs. Cole?.......and your great friend, Travis Cole? We are greiving your loss of your dad. We have so many wonderful memories growing up and are so sorry to hear about your Dad. Sandy, I'll always remember when you came over to our house and pointed out our "wavey glass" windows. We are still there. Stop by anytime. Jamie, Travis lives in Tucson but comes home some. Hopefully, you two can reconnect. We really care about you and your family. Please keep in touch.......I am really touched by your father's passing.........
Kathy Cole

Barbara Brandt

January 13, 2007

To Bill's family,

I was blessed to know Bill for the last 15 years. We always were at different schools, but at district meetings or trainings we would catch up on how our year was going.
I was blessed to sub at Cesar Chavez last year after I retired and he and I again got caught up. Bill was one of the most loving, thoughtful, and caring men I had the pleasure of meeting. Everyone who had the good fortune of knowing him, even slightly, is richly blessed that God gave us the blessing of knowing and being touched by Bill.

God bless you now and always.

Love,

Barbara Brandt

RENETTE, RON & VALERIE JENSEN

January 13, 2007

GOD MUST HAVE NEEDED ANOTHER ANGEL IN HEAVEN. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

Pam Golden

January 13, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Bill's dedication to his school and the children who went there is an inspiration. His warmth and caring attitude will always be remembered and treasured.

Heather C. Gold

January 13, 2007

TO THE FAMILY OF BILL FLEMING:
At this time of insupportable sorrow on losing Mr. Fleming so suddenly, I hope it will help some to know how much his influence was felt, and appreciated, by me, as a docent at The Living Desert, whenever any class from his school visited on tour. It is a testament to his vision & guidance [and therefore his teachers'] that every class I ever toured from his school was enthusiastic, well-mannered and prepared to enjoy nature with us. I am so sorry for your loss .. it is also his school's terrible loss. Respectfully, Heather Gold, (speaking privately & not for TLD)

Andrew K Lorenz

January 13, 2007

To the family and students of Bill Fleming:

We will miss Bill, his youth, energy, and his love of students and teaching.

Best regards and sincere sympathy,

Andy Lorenz
La Quinta Rotary Club

L. Valencia

January 13, 2007

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Rey Neufeld

January 13, 2007

I worked with Bill on the La Quinta Rotary Club's Adventure Program first as Assistant Principal and then as Principal at Cesar Chavez Elementary. We put together the program of taking 10 students each year who were not living up to their potential and taking them on various outings to broaden their horizons and expose them to jobs they might do some day. Various Rotarians participated in chaperoning the outings to The Desert Sun, Eisenhower Medical Center, Marriott Desert Springs, TV Channel 2, Riverside County Sheriff’s station/ Riverside County Court, College of the Desert and several years ago, the USS Enterprise in San Diego.

When he became Principal, rather than assigning the job of coordinating the program for the school to some one else he still wanted to be directly involved. I could always tell that the students loved and respected him. At the end of the school year he would come with the students to our La Quinta Rotary lunch where we awarded scholarships to La Quinta High students to show his students what other students were achieving. We at the La Quinta Rotary Club will very much miss this vibrant human being who was such an asset to our community.

Rey Neufeld, La Quinta Rotary Club

Guillermo Mendoza

January 13, 2007

You were a great friend and fellow colleague. I am glad we shared a science classroom together, took a law class together, was my administrative roommate, and fellow principal. I am glad we sat together one last time at the last principal's meeting. Thank you for the Christmas card. You will be always remembered and sorely missed.

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