It is with deep sorrow, we the Fleming family announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many, Vernon ‘Vern’ David Fleming, on December 5th, 2020 at the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital, at the age of 86. Born in Mount Dennis, Ontario to the late Vernon Fleming Sr. and to the late Emily (Brooks) Fleming. Vern’s presence will be greatly missed by his much-loved wife Terry Fleming, with which they shared 17 wonderful years together. His passing will be grieved by many organizations in the community, including but not limited to the Tillsonburg Lions Club, with which he was a three-time past president and was fondly referred to as “Nevada Vern” during countless bingo nights he helped to coordinate and administer over 30 plus years; proud Life Member of King Hiram Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M. #78, Tillsonburg; avid volunteer with the Canadian Blood Services, he could often be found at blood donation drives doling out beverages and snacks to donors; proud full member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #153, Tillsonburg; member of the Tillsonburg Airport Advisory Committee and a committed member of the Salvation Army Church, Tillsonburg. Vern served for over 30 years with the Ontario Provincial Police as a Community Services Officer, a position at which he excelled at due to his devotion and enthusiasm for helping others. He was instrumental in training youth in bicycle safety, bus patrolling and could be found instructing these skills all over Oxford County. Vern was very proud to be instrumental in starting up Tim Horton’s Camp Day. For 20 years, Vern engaged in “Journey for Sight” through Lions International, which led him to Montego Bay, Jamaica, where he provided and oversaw the disbursement of medical supplies, while also visiting local Lions Clubs- he oft referred to Jamaica as “My Beloved Jamaica.” He also worked with old Amish order schools, providing school supplies, and coordinating for the installation of playground equipment. For these acts, and for the passion in which he served this community, he was bestowed with “Citizen of the Year” honours in 2016. Vern was blessed with a wonderful life and his legacy will live on through his countless volunteer hours, dedication and by his wonderful family. Vern is survived by his wife Terry Fleming, his stepdaughter Rhonda Oatman, of Edmonton, Alberta; stepson Blair (Kelly) Oatman, of Courtland, and by his special grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Jessica Orchard, Nathan Oatman-Lyons, Alicia (Cody), Aaron (Danny), Alex (Chantelle) Gabriella, Brynn, Mason, Adelynn, and Hannah. Vern is predeceased by his great granddaughter Sophie (2019).
In keeping with Vern’s expressed wishes, cremation has taken place. A Columbarium Graveside Service in the Tillsonburg Cemetery will be announced later, by Pastor Ron Ferris, of the Salvation Army Church. Friends and relatives are invited to offer their support and care by making memorial donations, posting photos, sharing favourite memories, and hugs from home on Vern’s tribute page at www.verhoevefuneralhomes.com. Memorial donations to the “V.O.N. Oxford” (for Sakura House), or to the “Lions Foundation of Canada – Dog Guides,” or to “The Scott Mission” (in Toronto) or to the “Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital Foundation,” would be gratefully acknowledged by the Fleming family and can be made through the Maurice J. Verhoeve Funeral Homes- Burial and Cremation Services Inc., Tillsonburg (519-842-4238) entrusted with all arrangements, with confidence.
“This is the time to say goodbye,
The bees have kissed the butterfly,
The dew has kissed the green, green grass,
And to you my friend… goodbye.”
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Vernon David Vern Fleming December 5th 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Tillsonburg, Province: Ontario