Obituary for
Josephine Jeanne Fleming
Fleming, Josephine Jeanne (nee De Vriendt). Sadly, her family announces that “Josie” passed away peacefully at home on November 12, 2018 in her 92nd year. She was pre-deceased by her husband Russell James Fleming (1985). She is survived by her daughters Leonore Fleming and Donna Walker who provided great care to their beloved Mother. Also survived by Grandson Eric Walker, great-granddaughter Rya Josephine Walker and Donna’s partner Ross Toms.
Josie was born August 22, 1926 in Hoboken, Antwerp, Belgium. She was pre-deceased by her father Jan Constant De Vriendt (1972) and mother Rosa Petronella Philibert (1979). Surviving sisters in Belgium are Maria, Jose and Alida as well as many nieces and nephews. Growing up in Holland during the war years provided her with a stoic and independent attitude and a zest for life.
Josie was a war bride who married Russell in Holland on September 24, 1945 coming to Canada in mid 1946. The family settled in Richmond Hill in 1955 and Josie resided in her home on Balkan road until her passing. She loved her gardens and all of the wildlife who came to visit throughout the year. She was a big supporter of the Canadian Wildlife Federation and participated annually in the great back-yard bird count.
The 60’s thru 80s saw Josie as very active in her community. She was a librarian at the Oak Ridges libraries: Lake Wilcox Wildwood; Charles Connor; and Moraine branches (1971 thru 1991). She served for a number of years as the Division Commissioner of Girl Guides. She was a proactive supporter of the provincial and federal Liberal party. Her leadership roles were recognized in her being awarded the Key to Oak Ridges & Lake Wilcox, and receiving a special Certificate of Appreciation from Mayor Bell on September 26, 1991 when she retired from the Library with 25 years service.
A private family service and interment took place at Elgin Mills Cemetery on Friday, November 16, 2018. Condolences may be left online through www.marshallfuneralhome.com
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Josephine Jeanne
Fleming 1926 2018..
Death notice for the town of: Richmond-Hill, Province: Ontario