Burlington Notre Dame School

Robert M. Fleming, Jr., 93, of Burlington, IA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 in Lone Tree, CO while visiting family.

Born on March 28, 1931 in Burlington, he was the son of Robert and Mary (Finnegan) Fleming. He married Patricia J. Trautner on April 24, 1954 and together had five children. After her passing, he found love again, marrying Anita (McKaughan) Jochims on July 12, 2002, because Bob always knew how to choose a winning partner. 

Bob graduated from St. Paul’s Catholic School and then the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA. His education took a brief pause when he decided to serve his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force at Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming. After his military service he returned home to the University of Iowa, graduating with a Business Administration degree in 1956. He has remained a loyal Hawkeye fan ever since and will continue to cheer them on from heaven “forevermore”.

Bob began his professional career with The Winegard Company in 1956 and served in numerous leadership roles, including Vice President of Marketing and Vice President of Sales. His hard work and dedication earned him a return in retirement as a mentor/consultant, where he earned the nickname “The Deuce” from colleagues. He proudly dedicated his entire career, 40 years, to the Winegard Company until 1995.

His love for Burlington extended far beyond his job. Bob was very dedicated to his community serving two terms as a member of the Burlington City Council. Bob spearheaded the form of government from council-mayor to council-city manager.  He contributed his time and talents to numerous boards including BADCO, Burlington Bank & Trust, Notre Dame School Board, Winegard Company, and the Burlington Golf Club. His 43 years on the Great River Health System Board of Directors-several of those as Chairman-left such an impression that the boardroom was dedicated to his service and now bears his name. His many accomplishments and awards he received include the Emmy Award (Citizen of the Year), Boy Scouts Distinguished Citizen Award, and most recently, the Eight Over 80 Award from the University of Iowa in 2024. In retirement, Bob didn’t slow down; he just changed gears. He became a substitute teacher at Notre Dame Schools, where students and staff quickly learned that his sense of humor and no-nonsense approach were as sharp as his business acumen. He treasured his role at Notre Dame where the students loved and respected him greatly. 

He is survived by his wife, Anita, one sister, Sheila Fleming of Evanston, IL; five children, Kevin (Cindy) of Plano, TX; Kathy (Craig) Perkins of Parker, CO; Sheila Fleming of Pittsboro, NC; Brian Fleming (his favorite) and K.C. (Beth) Fleming of Burlington; four stepsons, Jeff (Margo) Jochims, Chris Jochims, Greg (Shelley) Jochims, and Mike Jochims; 17 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia (Trautner) on December 30, 1999; his parents and three brothers John (Tampa, FL), Terry (Denver, CO) and Joseph (Burlington, IA).

The Rosary Service is scheduled for 4:00 PM Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at Divine Mercy Parish-St. Paul's Catholic Church. Following the rosary, the family will receive friends until 7:00 PM.

The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Mr. Fleming will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at Divine Mercy Parish-St. Paul's Catholic Church with Rev. Father Jake Greiner as the Celebrant.  A gathering of fellowship and luncheon will follow at the Burlington Golf Club, 2124 Sunnyside Avenue. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date in Sacred Heart Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Great River Health Foundation and Burlington Notre Dame Foundation.