Richard L. Fleming age 86 of Lincoln passed away January 17, 2018. He was born February 24, 1931 in Ipswich, Massachusetts to LeRoy and Lucy (Sturgis) Fleming. Richard received his Bachelors of Science degree from Kansas State University in 1953, Masters Degree from the University of Nebraska in 1962 and his Doctorate from University of Nebraska in 1972. Richard began his professional career as the Assistant Extension Editor in charge of Press Section, Assistant to Associate Professor, Department of Information, College of Agriculture and Home Economics at the University of Nebraska, 1956-1963. He was the Director of University Information at the University of Nebraska, 1973-1976, assistant to the Chancellor, Director of University Information and Professor, College of Journalism and Mass Communications, University of Nebraska, 1976-1980. Richard received many awards during his career, listed are just a few including 24 years of loyal service, United States Government, 1996; Distinguished Service Award, Nebraska FFA Association, National FFA, 2006; Legacy Award for Continuing the Legacy by making a difference with his lifelong passion for education, care and respect for every student and service to alumni, stakeholders and your profession, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Alumni Association, 2007; Elected to Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement, 2005; Master Conservationist Award, 2011; Award of Merit, Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute, 2014; Hall of Fame, Nebraska Press Association and the University of Nebraska College of Journalism and Mass Communications, 2015. His memberships include National Agri-Marketing Association-past president of Midlands Chapter and member, national NAMA Board of Directors; Charter member, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Alumni Association, University of Nebraska, 2003; Past President, member, University of Nebraska Emeriti Association.
He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Becky Fleming of Eagle, daughter, Julie Chieffo of Lincoln. Grandsons, Ryan, Josh and Michael. Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Connie; his parents and one sister, Freda Manowski.
Memorial services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, January 27, 2018 at Wyuka Funeral Home. University of Nebraska attire is requested and appropriate.
Inurnment will be at Wyuka Cemetery.
Family requests memorials in lieu of flowers to the Dick and Connie Fleming Scholarship Fund in care of the University of Nebraska Foundation, 1010 Lincoln Mall Ste. 300, Lincoln, NE 68508 or the Lancaster County 4-H Council.
I worked for your Dad when I was a student at UNL in the late 60s. He was my first boss; and throughout my professional career, he remained one of the best bosses I ever had. He was a real gentleman, and I still remember him fondly.
A real pro, and one of the nicest people ever in the Public Information/Public Relations Field. He and his example will be missed by those of us who worked with him.
I remember fondly my experience and help working with your father when I was in charge of UN-L Homecoming royalty elections. When I needed extra prints of a football program cover that I was on, he saw to it that I got what I needed. My sympathies to you…
During my years with UNL, I had the pleasure of working with Dick frequently–always a positive, “can do” professional, a valued communicator, organizer and strong professional colleague and friend.
I’m confident his family will be supported by Dick’s many friends and former colleagues and the memories you share of this fine man.
I always had great respect for Dr. Fleming and my associations with him through my position in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, IANR. He would come to my office frequently as he would diligently be preparing nominations of faculty for various awards. Dick was always kind, considerate, and respectful of others. He was a true gentleman and friend that I am honored to have known and worked with. I know it was an honor for him to serve the University of Nebraska, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IANR, and the state of Nebraska. Sending my sincerest sympathy for your loss. May you find peace in wonderful memories and God’s everlasting love.