Obituary of Orlow Fleming

Orlow Thomas Fleming was born in Monroe, Michigan on November 11, 1937. He was the son of the late George Fleming and Helen (Eder) Fleming. He was raised by his late stepfather: Thaddeus Barzak. Orlow attended Airport High School. He married the love of his life the former Mary Ann Toth on May 22, 1965 at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Lincoln Park. Orlow worked hard supporting his family for more than thirty years as a Press Operator at the Ford Motor Company Woodhaven Stamping Plant. He retired in 1998. Orlow was a very dedicated pleaser. He didn't like to procrastinate. Orlow never complained, was quiet, helpful, and very easy-going. He was a man of many interests and talents. He enjoyed gardening and farmed for many years at his home, woodworking, and decorating the yard with ornaments. He was an excellent cook making wonderful homemade soup and baking delicious pies. Orlow participated in many charity events including cancer fundraisers and Hot Summer Nights for Mercy Hospice. He liked classic cars and his 1961 Comet, "Proud Mary". Orlow traveled with the Frenchtown Seniors to Italy, Spain, Canada, and throughout the United States. He also loved going to fish frys with his daughter, playing euchre with family and friends, and spending time with grandchildren visiting the Monroe County Fair. Orlow, age 76 of Monroe passed away at 8:07pm, Wednesday, February 26, 2014 at Mercy Memorial Hospital. In addition to his parents and his stepfather his passing was preceded by three brothers: Robert, Ronald, and Duane Fleming, and a sister: Lavanna Schultz. To cherish his memory he leaves a loving wife of forty-nine years: Mary Ann of Monroe; daughter: Rhonda (Joshua) Salenbien of Dundee; son: Ronald Fleming of Monroe; sisters: Karen (Tom) Prusak, Victoria Grant, and Carol Straub; sister-in-law: Barbara Fleming; and three grandchildren: Ellie, Eve, and Joshua Jr.. Friends may gather from 2:00-7:00pm, Sunday, March 1, 2014 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe. A Rosary Service will follow at 7:00pm led by Deacon George Cousino. He will lie in state from 10:30am until the Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00am, Monday, March 3 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 2906 West Labo. Father John Dumas will officiate. Memorials are suggested to St. Patrick Parish or the Kidney Foundation. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.