Robert D. Fleming, Jr.
August 21, 1952 ~ December 27, 2019
Robert D. Fleming, Jr., 67, of Taylorville, passed away at 8:05 a.m. on Friday, December 27, 2019, at his residence, surrounded by family.
Bob was born August 21, 1952, in Decatur, IL, the son of Robert D. and Maureen (Lucas) Fleming, Sr. He married Helga L. Wilson on February 25, 2005, in Decatur, IL, and they enjoyed over 15 years of marriage.
Bob graduated from high school in Coshocton, OH in 1970. Prior to this, he was an excellent multi-sport athlete in the Taylorville School District. He was recently honored by the Taylorville Quarterback Club for his athletic achievements. Bob was a Chief Underground Engineer at Peabody #10 and Freeman Crown #2 and #3 coal mines before his retirement. He then worked for Wal-Mart for 8 years before retiring for good. In 1978, Bob went to Beaver, OK and won the World Championship of Cow Chip Throwing. The records he set there were featured in the 1980 Guinness Book of World Records. Bob was proud to hand out his business card proving his accomplishments. He could always be found watching a western, loving on his dogs, and rooting on the San Francisco Giants and Fighting Illini. Out of all of Bob’s accomplishments and hobbies, nothing made him happier than the time spent with his children and grandchildren. Being a grandpa was his greatest joy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Deborah Stivers; brother-in-law, Michael Sanders; and an infant granddaughter.
Bob is survived by his wife, Helga Fleming of Taylorville, IL; children, Douglas Felice of Salt Lake City, UT, Johanna (husband, Andy) Barraco of Salt Lake City, UT, Dave (wife, Juletta) Ellis of Pana, IL, Amanda (fiancé, Danny Klay) Ellis of Taylorville, IL, and Lacy (husband, Andrew) Ford of Mt. Zion, IL; 10 grandchildren; sisters, Kathy (husband, Dean) Ray, Suzzy Cocagne, and Marty Sanders, all of Taylorville, IL; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The memorial ceremony will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2020, and the visitation will follow the ceremony until 6:00 p.m. at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568, with Pastor Don Bettis officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Christian County Honor Guard, c/o V.F.W. Post 4495, 515 N. West St., Taylorville, IL 62568, or Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Rd. Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.
Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences to the family.
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Bob was a great guy. My favorite baseball coach growing up! He always inspired me to play my best. He will be missed. Rest in peace Bob.
So sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. Met him through baseball. He was our son’s couch- he thought he was the best. He was a wonderful person. Our prayers are with you. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Sam and Marsha Ellinger
My deepest sympathy to Bob’s family. Not only was he a classmate of mine but he worked along side of my father Schultte Bishop at Peabody Coal Mine #10. Dad enjoyed Bob – Bob was a pall bearer at my dad’s funeral. I wish you peace and love through all the memories you have shared together.
I remember him from Walmart. He was my absolute favorite associate! He was always helpful and had an infectious smile! So sorry for your loss.
I have fond memories of Bob from high school. He was a very nice person with a warm smile. My condolences to his family.
Bob was always so helpful to me when shopping at Walmart and so kind I’m so sorry for your loss
So thankful and blessed to have met Bob and all his family and to spend quality time together! Some wonderful moments. Thanks for letting me be part of the journey. Bob said he would watch out for us from Heaven. I believe he will 😉 will continue to pray for unexplainable peace from God during this challenging time.
My sincere sympathy and love to Bob’s entire family. Bob was a very special friend to all of us who were fortunate to have known him. RIP my friend.
Srru to hear of Bobs passing. I knew Bob for many years and he was a super nice guy. He wlli be missed