Murray Fleming passed away peacefully on October 19, 2024, at the age of 89, surrounded by the love of his family. Murray was born on November 24, 1934 to Christopher and Marie Fleming of Sudbury, Ontario.
Murray was the cherished father of Ann Marie (Manuel Miranda), Barry (Anne Ling), Sandra (George Trzmiel), and Shirley (John MacAngus). He was a devoted grandfather to Laura, Karen, Candice, Alex, and Julia (and her precious dog, Bear), and a proud great-grandfather to Chloe, Addison, Ethan, Emmett, and Jack.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of 43 years, Mary Kowal, his sister Shirley Dumas (Peter), and his brother Edward “Buddy” Fleming. Murray will be fondly remembered by his brothers-in-law Peter Mombourquette and Maurice Kowal, along with many nieces and nephews.
At the age of 19, Murray enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces as a Heavy Radar Technician, embarking on an adventurous career that would take him across the country and to other parts of the world. He met the love of his life, Mary Kowal, in Sydney, N.S. They married in Holberg, B.C., in 1958, and together they raised four children, moving 12 times to different air force bases across Ontario and Quebec. Murray served his country with pride, embracing every new posting—even when it meant housing his family of six in a trailer for three years. He claimed that it was in those close quarters where his kids mastered the art of “fighting like cats and dogs”. Among his other adventures was a six-month tour of duty at Canadian Forces Station Alert in Nunavut, which he described to his children as “a trip to visit Santa at the North Pole.” He retired as a Chief Warrant Officer after a 35 year distinguished career.
Murray’s family treasures memories of starting each day with him and enjoying his culinary creations. His "famous" breakfasts included mouthwatering stove-toasted bread prepared using a metal coat hanger fashioned into a makeshift toaster. Murray was known for his tasty BBQs and his delicious homemade chicken soup that he, himself, described as the "Nectar of the Gods". Murray’s passions included daily walks, swimming -- diving fearlessly into chilly waters, and playing tennis. He would often joke that he could win at tennis playing with one hand tied behind his back and with one string on his racket. An avid reader, Murray would have a newspaper, the TIME Magazine and a book on the go at all times. Murray was also the family’s go-to for perfectly pressed clothes. He and Mary loved visiting their adult children whether in Ottawa or abroad, embracing every adventure— including looking wildly funny covered with mud at the Dead Sea in Israel. Murray's infectious enthusiasm for the game Trivia Pursuit had everyone hooting and hollering when "a pie" was won. A lifelong sports fan, Murray enjoyed going to Ottawa Senators hockey games and trips to Buffalo for NFL matchups. His mischievous grin, quick wit, and gentle, kind spirit brought warmth and joy to all who knew him. We will miss you Dad.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Granite Ridge Community for their compassionate care. Memorial donations may be made in Murray’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society. A private service will be held in Murray’s honor at the family’s request.
You led a great life Murray. You ought to be proud of all that you did and so proud of your family too. One of my great memories is when you helped me install hardware flooring in our house in North Gower. I had a broken nail gun, it was hot and tiring and Murray never complained and never wanted to stop. The cold beer tasted great at the end. We'll miss you Murray. Rest in Peace.