Eugene R Fleming

On the evening of Veteran’s Day, Gene closed his eyes and started his new journey, hopefully, on one of his beloved motorcycles in the sky. Gene was born in Klamath Falls, Oregon, on March 19th, 1941, to John and Olive Fleming. He was raised in Oregon and Washington State by his mother and stepfather Jerry Lindesmith, alongside his half-sister, Barbara. Gene joined the Army after graduating from Medical Lake High School in Medical Lake, Washington, and served for three years at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. After his honorable discharge, Gene traveled home to the northwest, and later moved to Pueblo, Colorado. In 1970, Gene met his lifelong friends, Bob and Claudia Bailey, and their girls Bev and Debby. They met on a dirt hill, while riding motorcycles in Pueblo. Gene became part of the family soon after when the girls decided they needed a big brother. On Christmas 1972, Bev and Debby adopted Gene as their big brother, formalizing him as a member of their family with a document written in crayon and decorated with glitter. Gene was always a part of the growing family and became “Uncle Shrek” to the generations thereafter. Gene worked for Pepsi as a sales representative and delivery driver, and then as a pressman at the Pueblo Chieftain. In 1983, he moved to Denver and worked at the Denver Post until 2003, when he retired. Gene had many friends at the Post and was referred to as “Animal” by the group he cherished. He gained additional friendships and memories with the Wass family and Jaca. After retiring from the Post, he traveled throughout the U.S. in his fifth wheel, most often to the northwest coast to visit his sister. For many years, he made the trip to be with her for her birthday and spent most summers in Tacoma. He also enjoyed camping, riding motorcycles, and spending time with friends and family. Gene lived his final years in southern Colorado with his (adopted) sister, Debby, and her husband, Eric. With them, he enjoyed the views of the mountains, the quietness of the valley, and hanging out with family. Although Gene pretended to be a grumpy old man most of his adult life, in reality, he had a heart of gold and would help anyone in need. Gene is predeceased by his parents, brother in law, and lifelong friends Bob and Claudia, and Rick Wass. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Kleber, and “sisters” Bev (Bryan) Fuller and family, and Debby (Eric) Holgerson and family. To honor Gene’s wishes, there will be no funeral service, and his burial will be private. Gene’s family warmly thanks Sangre De Cristo Hospice for their loving care. To honor his memory, donations may be sent to Sangre De Cristo Hospice in lieu of flowers. As his dear friend Jody wrote, “Rest in Peace my friend, and enjoy the campfires with all of your friends who have been waiting for you to join them”.

Eugene R Fleming

March 19, 1941 - November 11, 2023