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David Fleming Obituary
David Fleming, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Known as a natural leader with a kind heart and good-natured spirit, David brought joy to those around him with his humor, style, love of music, and unmistakable presence.
He was born to Doris Fleming and Edward Fleming in Albany, NY, on October 11, 1946. From an early age, David knew his calling. As a fourth grader in Colonie, NY, he discovered his passion for music and set his sights on becoming a music teacher-a dream he fulfilled with dedication and talent. David pursued his education at the Crane School of Music in Potsdam, NY, as a trumpet major, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees. It was there he met the love of his life, Marsha Feeney of Canisteo, NY. They married in 1969 and shared 57 years of love, adventure, and deep partnership, creating a life rich in family, friendships, travel, and time on the water.
He is survived by his wife, Marsha; daughter, Megan Deming, and grandsons, Thomas and Nicholas of Auburn, NY; his son, Jonathan Fleming, and wife, Kerry, and grandsons, James and Daniel of Waterbury, VT; and his sister, Nancy Fleming Asher, and her husband, Larry, of South Carolina. He also leaves behind many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews, as well as extended family; including sisters-in-law, Bonnie (d. 2025) and Dick Mider, Kate Engler, Dianne, and Raymond VanPelt. David's legacy is rooted in leadership, kindness, a love of music, and a strong sense of family.
He taught music at Mynderse Academy in Seneca Falls for nine years, inspiring countless students, before becoming a part-owner of Central Music (American Music) and later working with Guitar Center to connect musicians across the country.
In retirement, David continued to share his musical gifts, playing trumpet in community and college bands and leading big band groups. He remained active in the music community, serving on boards including the Syracuse Symphony and the Central NY Jazz Band. David also recently played trumpet in the Syracuse University Brass Ensemble.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 3rd, from 5 to 7 p.m., and the funeral will be Saturday, April 4th, at 11 a.m., at Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee Street, Auburn, NY 13021.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David's honor to The Leukemia Society.
David's life was one of passion, generosity, and music. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched and the family who loved him deeply.
Memories and Condolences
for David Fleming
Sponsored by Pettigrass Funeral Home.
Ingrid Rennie
April 5, 2026
Oh my dear Marsha - I am so sorry to learn this devastating news. My heart goes out to you and your family. David was truly "a man among men." I don´t believe that I have ever met anyone who so excelled at every endeavor - but more important, he was a kind, caring and compassionate soul. He will be so deeply missed.
Ronald Fleury
April 5, 2026
To Marsha and family...I was so sad when I happened on David's obituary. I had no idea where you and David may be living but I do remember the Auburn connection. I also remember so many fun days while teaching and coaching for Mynderse. I also remember the great marching bands developed by David a crew. I also sadly could not attend David's funeral as my grandson was running his first outdoors track meet for and at Geneseo on Saturday. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you remember a great man! Love to you all! Ron
Cindy Yeomans Rotondo
April 4, 2026
Mr. Fleming was my band teacher until he left Mynderse. He was an awesome instructor. Field band was great!! Grand Champs at Gorham was one of the best day of my life!! Music has always been a part of my life. So sorry for your loss.
Susan and Peter Manion
April 4, 2026
Marsha, Megan, and Jonathan, we are so so sorry. I have so many wonderful Crane memories, marching band memories (the rainy and snowy days, not so wonderful, though) and reconnecting with you both at Hilton Head. Such an amazing talent taken way too quickly. Sending love and hugs to you all - Susan and Peter Manion
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JR Manning
April 4, 2026
Wonderful man. Peace and comfort to your family. JR Manning, Sr. Mynderse Class of 1977
Larry Luttinger
April 3, 2026
I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for Dave's support and encouragement. He served as the founding President of the CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, which I founded in 1996 as a total newbie arts administrator. He guided us successfully through our first decade of existence, and was the driving force behind the early years of our downtown jazz festival (then called Jazz in the Square), using his prodigious influence in the music world to secure superstars like Arturo Sandoval and Eddie Daniels. His kind, surehanded leadership was integral to our success. Marsha, Megan, and family, my heartfelt sympathy and condolences for your loss. Dave is surely up there playing trumpet in that Heavenly Big Band in the sky!
Deborah Coble
April 2, 2026
Marsha,
I was so sorry to read about Dave's passing in the paper this morning. We hadn't seen you both for many years but we have fond memories of knowing you from Central Music and since then. I just lost George this past November from complications of Frontotemporal Dementia and Primary Progressive Aphasia. My deepest sympathy to you and your family during this sad and difficult time. Thinking of you, Debby Coble
Lisa Sigona
April 2, 2026
Marsha & Megan:
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. There are no words at a time like this, but there are family, friends and good memories. On angels wings, fly high and watch over your loved ones Dave.
Sincerely,
Jim Troisi (Cathy Troisi´s husband and Kimberly Ann Troisi-Paton´s dad)
and
Lisa Sigona (Cathy Troisi´s sister and Kimberly Ann Troisi-Paton´s aunt)
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