David Fleming

David Fleming, 71, of Enemy Swim Lake, passed away of natural causes, Saturday, November 30, 2024 at his home.

David John Fleming was born on October 23, 1953 to Thea M. (Auth) and Joseph T. Fleming in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Cathedral and attended St. Lambert’s Catholic School in Sioux Falls. He graduated from O’ Gorman High School in 1971. Throughout high school he worked at Fleming Meat and Lockers which was owned by David’s grandfather. In 1971 he enlisted in the United States Navy. He was honorably discharged in 1975 and returned to Sioux Falls. After the service, he attended South Dakota State University and studied Wildlife Biology. He held several positions with various meat processing companies in Sioux Falls, then moved to Denver, Colorado where he worked for King Super using his meat cutting training and became known as “The Meat Cutter”! He retired in 2008 and moved to Enemy Swim Lake, located about two hours north of Sioux Falls.

David had a great sense of humor and a quick wit. He was an extremely intelligent man who had a deep faith. David is a firm believer in prayer and the celebration of mass. He was a kind man with a gentle soul. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, but as years went by, he simply enjoyed observing nature’s bounty. He loved bird watching, sitting on his deck taking in the beautiful view and waving at the boaters passing by. Dave loved his neighbors and was known to keep a watchful eye out for the community. He also enjoyed reading and watching movies, his favorite being Westerns. His furry companion, Jake, was always at his side. David loved his walks with Jake and spending time with family.

Dave leaves behind his son Josh, grandson Jordan, brothers Tim (Karen), Dan (Kim) and Tony (Ellen), sister-in-law Mary, uncle Mike (Ginger) who was considered a brother, and nieces and nephews (listed in order of age), Aimee, Nicole, Danny, Jarrod, Molly, Betsy, Jimmy, Maggie and Dr. Zach. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Thea and sons Michael and Nikolas, and nephew Joseph.

A memorial mass for David will be held in Sioux Falls at a later date.