Obituary of Joseph Eugene Fleming

It is with great sadness that our family announces the death of Joseph Fleming of Saint John, beloved husband of Hazel (Graves) Fleming, which occurred on Sunday, December 4, 2016 at Ridgewood Veterans Wing. Born on August 13, 1921 in Norton, he was the son of the late James and Helena (McGloan) Fleming. Dad served with the RCAF during WWII. After the war, Dad entered the trades and eventually became the first Master Plumber in the province; later in his career he worked as a Plumbing Inspector for the City of Saint John and then the Province of New Brunswick until his retirement. After, Dad stayed busy doing ‘little jobs’ for his friends and neighbours and stayed in touch with his many acquaintances in the building trades. These friendships meant a lot to him and our family. Dad was an avid golfer, with a powerful drive, but an equally strong hook, which he always anticipated when making his shot. He also enjoyed bowling and made many new friends at the Bowlarama in Lancaster. Dad later developed quite a workshop for woodworking, and had a tough time keeping up with orders for his crafts and baby cribs. Dad especially loved to travel and made it around most of North America aside from his military travel; he was always curious about what was going on throughout the world and to his last day listened to CBC radio, day and night. As an athlete, Dad won many championships in baseball and hockey, and he was a huge Sea Dogs fan and season ticket holder. He was thrilled when his grandson Brian signed on as a coach two years ago and was always quick with advice of how the team could play better! Along with Mother, Dad always went to great lengths to support his children and grandchildren’s education. And he always smiled when he got the news about Jesse’s marathon running, Lindsay’s nursing and horse training and Brian’s hockey adventures. He will be sadly missed by his wife Hazel, children Jim Fleming (Kim) of Saint John and JoAnne Murray (Jim) of Ontario; grandchildren, Lindsay and Brian Fleming and Jesse Murray; nephews, John Buckingham of Moncton and Michael Ryan of Ontario; as well as cousins, Joan Whalen and George Carvel and their children. Besides his parents, he was also predeceased by his sisters, Marie Ryan and Catherine Buckingham and brother, Warren Fleming. Many thanks to the folks at Ridgewood Veterans Wing for their care and friendship given to Dad over the past year; our family is forever grateful! As per Joe’s wishes, there will be no visitation. A private service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424). As Dad always loved the little animals, remembrances may be made to the Saint John SPCA Animal Rescue.