Donald Grant Fleming
May 23, 1937 – January 14, 2025
It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Donald Grant Fleming, a husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle, teacher, mentor, and friend, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at Hospice Simcoe on January 14th, 2025, at the age of 87. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy, who was his partner in everything—travel, dance, and life’s greatest adventures.
Don was born on May 23rd, 1937, and lived an extraordinary life to the fullest, with a deep commitment to family, friends, and community, giving back countless hours to various organizations.
A proud graduate of Richmond Hill High School, Don returned to teach and coach there for an impressive 30 years. His students fondly remember his dedication to their growth and success in and out of the classroom. Years of canoe trips, lacrosse championships, ski trips, jam sessions, and learning the art of square dancing were just some of the ways that Don inspired young people to push their boundaries and embrace new experiences.
A phenomenal all-around athlete and hockey player, Don continued playing the sport four times a week into his 70s, embodying the spirit of lifelong fitness and competition. After the passing of his wife, Don found a new passion in lawn bowling, where he forged new friendships in a community that shared his love for friendly competition. His enthusiasm for lawn bowling was contagious and inspired others to take up the sport.
In addition to his athletic abilities, Don had a natural gift for technology. He loved computers and was always up to date with the latest gadgets and innovations. He also ran a side gig as a wedding photographer for many years, capturing memories and moments that families will treasure forever, including a photo that can be found in the National Archives.
Don’s creativity extended beyond photography with a mind that could solve any problem, often in the most inventive ways. He had an eye for design, landscaping, and construction, and he channeled these gifts into a variety of projects throughout his life. Whether it was designing the family cottage or perfecting his lawn bowling arm to improve his performance, Don was always immersed in a project. His ability to MacGyver solutions for any problem, combined with his sharp attention to detail and aesthetic sensibility, Don’s practical genius was matched only by his warmth and generosity of spirit. His family will forever treasure the lessons he taught them.
A lover of folk and traditional music, Don played the guitar and spent years immersed in the rhythms of Scottish Country Dancing, a hobby he shared with his beloved wife, Judy. Their love for dance and music was just one of the many ways they created lasting memories together.
Don and Judy also loved learning and traveling together, particularly to England, where they made countless trips in their retirement years. They immersed themselves in third age learning programs and genealogy research, uncovering family history and forging new friendships and connections around the globe.
Don was never one to sit still and was a true adventurer at heart. One of his greatest joys in life was
spending summers on Ahmic Lake, where he loved sailing, square dancing, tackling projects, water skiing (tricks and all), jam sessions, and embracing the beauty of the outdoors with family and friends by his side.
Don’s legacy will continue through the memories of all who knew him—his love of life, his inventive spirit, and his unwavering love for his family. Rest in peace, Don. Your memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know you.
Sarah Fleming and her family welcome family and friends for a visitation on Friday, February 21st between 6-8pm at Columbus Hall - Barrie, 93 Berczy St, Barrie, ON L4M 3R2.
Cynda Fleming and her family welcome family and friends for a visitation on Saturday, March 22nd from 1-4pm at the Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Rd., Toronto, ON, M4T 2V8, and a service celebrating Don’s life on Sunday, March 23rd at 1pm at Leaside United Church 822 Millwood Ave., Toronto, ON, M4G 1W4. A livestream of the service will be shared for those unable to attend in person. If desired, memorial gifts can be made to Glowing Hearts Charity, a volunteer-run organization led by Don’s daughter, Sarah, or your preferred charity. https://www.glowingheartscharity.org/donate
Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.legacyfuneral.ca
Arrangements entrusted to Legacy Funeral Home, Barrie. 705-728-8282