Robert James Fleming, M.D.

Fleming, M.D., Robert James, Ophthalmologist anointed with the Sacrament of the Dying and the Apostolic Blessing by his son Reverend Rodger P. Fleming. Beloved husband of 59 years to Genevieve “Sissy” (nee: Erker). Born July 7, 1923 and passed on February 2, 2016 on the Feast of the Presentation of the Child Jesus in the Temple. Loving father of ten children; Judy (Dennis) Meinert, Dr. Rob (Susan Steck) Fleming, Genny (Rob) Glosier, Dr. Tom (Mary Willbrand) Fleming, Cheryl (Dr. Alain) Lambert, Susie (Ken) Choinka, Rev. Rodger Fleming, Gerard (Susan Kerkemeyer) Fleming, Rich (Caroline Southerland) Fleming, and Tim (Erin Newman) Fleming; generous grandfather of 39; great grandfather of 6; son of Dr. Thomas N. Fleming and Rose (nee: Bingenheimer) Fleming; and brother of Richard Fleming, M.D. and Joseph Fleming. He is preceded in death by his other siblings Tom Fleming, Paul Fleming, M.D., Donata King, Rosemary Clarke.

Working hard was instilled in him as a child, starting with delivering newspapers on his bike. While serving his country in the 94th infantry in the United States Army, he received a Bronze star in WWII where he fought in the Battle of the Bulge under Patton. Bob graduated in 1950 from St. Louis University Medical School. He later set up an Ophthalmology practice in St. Charles, where he settled with his wife and raised their children. He always put faith and family first, going to daily mass until he was 90. Bob also gave a lot of time to the community working and contributing to many organizations. He was past President of Hospital staff at St. Joseph Health Center, past President of First State Bank Board for 1 year and served on the board for 25 years. He also served on the St. Charles Library Board for 25 years. Bob started a Manresa group in St. Charles in the late 1950’s. He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and a member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish. He always planned time for tennis, golf, reading, and traveling with his family. Whenever approached by anyone with a concern, he said, “I will pray about it.” We know now and for all eternity, when we approach him in heaven, he will be praying for us.

Memorials to St. Charles Birthright, or Vitae Society, P.O. Box 791, 1731 Southridge Drive Suite D, Jefferson City, MO 65109, or Beyond Sunday/Roman Catholic Foundation for Catholic Education, P.O. Box 790286, St. Louis, MO 63179-0286.