Ah, dear readers, there are a few obituary notices that bring me to tears, and very few to laughter. This one fills both categories and I write this with misty eyes. I did not know David but I know and love Kara, from whom I received this communication. It is, if you know Kara or knew David, or got a glimmer of their amazing love and connection through their facebook posts to each other, just perfect. Yes, there will be an official obituary from the funeral home but this one is for sure “better.”

Please note the following title is credit to one of his sons.

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David Fleming’s O’bitch

David M. Fleming, of Weston, Massachusetts, passed away on April 6th surrounded by family and friends, flashing his infectious smile and cracking his quick-witted jokes. 

Filled with creativity from birth, David had a lifelong love for words and stories. He was first published at age 5 and went on to become a prolific writer of poems, short stories, and novels. His last published work was the novel “The Saturday Boy,” whose central character was a mix of him and his two sons – but in truth, they are all one.

David’s body of work was uniquely reflective of his intelligence, charm and humor. He infused his narratives and characters with the genuine qualities that made him so loved by his friends and family. 

David would say that he found his wife, Kara, in the want ads. After their nine-month romance, they shared a 25-year marriage that brought two beautiful and talented boys into the world. Aidan and Danny, who both inherited their father’s very best qualities, shared with David a passion for telling “Dad Jokes” and a deep love for all genres of music. He also adored his two crazy yet loveable “compact turbo dogs,” Gracie and Happenstance Velociraptor (aka Happy). David is also survived by his mother Nancy and brother Tim. He was predeceased by his father Samuel.

A graduate of the Weston High School class of 1989 and Wheaton College class of 1993, he also attended The Fessenden School and The Governor’s Academy.

A private interment service will be held with immediate family. At David’s request, a party will be thrown replete with Guinness and Paddy’s, his favorite whiskey, and a bumpin’ playlist of his favorite bands.

Slainté David, you were so very loved and you will be sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to MassAudubon in memory of the farm and seasonal explorations he took with his boys and also to Weston Forest and Trail Association in memory of the forested walks he cherished with Kara.

All images courtesy of Kara Fleming, who I deeply appreciate.