It is with much sadness that we say goodbye to a wonderful and caring son, brother, husband, father, grandpa and friend. RONALD JAMES FLEMING was born on March 21, 1946 to Robert and Mabelle Fleming of Milk River. He was raised on the family farm, just outside of town, and resided there until his passing, on November 14, 2008.

Ron received his early education at the Milk River Elementary School and Erle Rivers High School. He then attended the University of Alberta for one year, but it didn't take long to decide he wasn't meant to be a city boy. While in school he was involved in 4-H, track & field, baseball, basketball, curling, and golf. He still enjoyed the odd golf game, but hadn't played much in the last few years. The farm and his family were his life and he rarely took time off. Much of his spare time was spent reading and sharing the things he learned with anyone who was interested. Ron was also involved in many community groups and acted as an Assistant Leader in the 4-H club for many years. Ron had a great sense of humor. Many of you have likely received a letter or a poem portraying some humorous view of things that were happening in your life at the time.

On November 27, 1976 Ron married Bev Robinson from Del Bonita. They have worked side by side for 32 wonderful years, and affectionately called each other Flo and Elmo. They were blessed with three healthy and happy children, Sandra (Geoff) Nickerson of Okotoks, Greg (Darlene) Fleming of Milk River and Shelly (Sean) Butler of Coutts as well as three precious grandchildren, Nash and Preston Butler and Gemma Nickerson. Even though it was short he loved spending time with them and all his family near and far. Ron is also survived by his mother Mabelle Fleming and sisters Nancy (Ron) Wollersheim, Pat Fleming, Joan (Robert) Kuhl, Barb Dinan and Bev (Ken) George and their families and by Bev's mother Bernice Robinson and family, Shirley Robinson, Larry (Brenda) Robinson, Sharon (Harold) Thompson, Bill Robinson, Bob (Linda Paul) Robinson, Susan (Dick) Hall and their families, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by father Robert Fleming, brother Stan Fleming, brother-in-law Ed Dinan, niece, Lynsay Fellger and father-in-law Albert Robinson.

Ron was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer August 2008 and had a very difficult struggle. He greatly missed his time on coffee row. He was also very moved by the many kind deeds, both large and small, shown by family, friends, and neighbors.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at ST. PETER'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, Milk River, with Reverend Mary Young officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Milk River Ambulance Department, General Delivery, Milk River, AB T0K 1M0.