Robert Bruce Fleming
Robert "Bruce" Fleming, devoted husband, wonderful father and poppa, passed away peacefully on July 8th, 2024 due to complications caused by cancer. Bruce was born September 13, 1942 in Port Elgin Ontario, but spent a great deal of time in Southampton Ontario, where he met and married his high school sweetheart Marg Davies. Bruce is predeceased by his parents George Clark Fleming and Eleonara (nee Karau) and brothers Barry and Brian. He is survived by his brother Brad Fleming of Port Elgin.
Bruce's greatest pride and joy were his children, Rob (Michele McGrath) and Micheline (Andrew Dunn), and his grandchildren, Colin, Regan, Scott, Genevieve, and David. He revelled in their accomplishments and delighted in every moment spent together, creating cherished memories that will endure for generations.
With the support of his late brother-in-law, Bud Davies and wife Louise, Bruce began his career as an educator in North Bay in 1964, where he embarked on a journey that would span three decades. Bruce was known for his commitment to his students and his genuine care for their well-being. Bruce's classroom was not just a place of learning but a sanctuary of kindness and encouragement, where he fostered a love for knowledge that would last a lifetime.
Outside of his profession, Bruce found joy in the company of his beloved wife, Margaret (nee Davies) whom he cherished throughout their journey of 60 years of marriage. Their bond was a testament to love, loyalty, and mutual support, enriching each other's lives in profound ways.
For 21 consecutive years, Bruce was the secretary of the North Bay Masonic Lodge and a very proud recipient of the William Mercer Wilson Medal in 2011.
In his earlier years, Bruce embraced the simple pleasures of life with enthusiasm. He was an avid tennis player, finding both competition and camaraderie on the courts. His passion for gardening and fishing brought him serenity and excitement, often sharing these moments with Rob and Micheline or his nephews Jeff and Neil Davies. Bruce's love for singing led him to be a founding member of the Gateway Harmony Company, Choral Society and a member of the St. Andrew’s United Church choir for over 5 decades. His rich bass voice will be greatly missed.
A memorial service to celebrate Bruce's life will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church on Friday, July 12, at 2:00pm with a visitation at Hillside Funeral Home on Thursday July 11, from 2-4. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Andrew’s United Church Choir Fund.
Hillside Funeral Services Ltd.
