Dean Fleming

Dean Lester Fleming passed away on 13 May 2024 at the Woodbury Senior Living facility in Woodbury, MN. “Deano”, as he was known by his family and friends, was 98 years old.

Dean was born on 19 August 1925 to Lester and Amelia Fleming in White, South Dakota and spent the first year of his life there.

The family then moved briefly to Mankato, MN and finally to Waseca, MN, where he graduated from Waseca High School. He was a member of St John Lutheran church.

Deano joined the Army toward the end of WWII and was trained as a Medic and stationed in Hawaii. After his brief stint in the Army, he returned to Waseca and worked for the Pillsbury Company until the business closed. He viewed this  as an opportunity and decided to start his own business in 1954 —Dean’s Specialty Supply Co. He turned this into a multi-million-dollar business serving farm and grain elevators in MN and the surrounding four states. After 23 years he sold the business and started enjoying much deserved retirement, often spending winter months in southern Texas. Deano enjoyed fishing, hunting,  playing cards, dancing, and going to auctions. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Lester and Amelia Fleming, son Jerry Fleming, sister Marjorie Ross (Robert) and wives, Polly Streitz (Herb) andbMargaret Fleming.

He is survived by children: Stephen Fleming (Lydia), Richard D. Fleming (Lynda), Cathy Johnson (Craig), grand children: Richard S. Fleming (Myra), Michelle Stadelman (Lucian), Michael Fleming (Lori), Kristi Borowy (Matthew), Julie Gronewold (Cody), Benjamin Johnson (Amanda), and Katie Kopiecki (Ethan). 11 great grandchildren, 2 great- great grandchildren, 5 stepchildren, numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Deano chose to be cremated and will be buried in Woodville Cemetery, Waseca, MN. There will be a private family graveside ceremony.