Gerda Anneliese Fleming
August 5, 1939 -
January 6, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerda Anneliese Fleming on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on August 5, 1939, in Wuerzburg, Germany, to the late Karl and Ottillie (Demant) Hoerl. Gerda dedicated her life to caring for others, instilling strength and kindness in everyone she met.
Gerda met her husband William Fleming during his tour of duty in Germany. They were married January 27, 1964, and settled in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Together, they raised their two sons, Steven and Matthew, who carried forward her legacy of love and compassion. Gerda cherished every moment spent with her family, especially with her grandchildren-Megan, Jacob, and Joseph in whom she was immensely proud.
An active member of her church, Gerda volunteered tirelessly in numerous capacities, managing the Gift Shop, participating in the choir, and being an essential part of the Legion of Mary, where she brought hope and the Eucharist to those unable to attend services. Her gentle spirit was felt in the bereavement ministry, where she offered comfort to grieving families.
Gerda's love for music echoed through her performances with the Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra, where she played the violin with grace and passion. A devoted gardener, she cultivated a beautiful rose garden that reflected her vibrant personality and brought joy to those around her.
Her commitment and generosity were especially evident as she lovingly cared for her husband, William Fleming, during his battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Gerda's resilience in the face of challenges inspired many and her unwavering honesty made her a cherished confidante.
Thanksgiving was Gerda's favorite holiday-a time when the warmth of family gathered around a table helped her celebrate the richness of life. To her, it was not just about the food, but the love and togetherness that filled the air.
Gerda is survived by her sons, Steven Fleming and Matthew (Rebecca) Fleming; her brother, Henner (Siegrun) Hoerl; her niece, Ulrike (Lutz) Weber and nephew, Bernhard (Susanne) Hoerl. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will be forever cherished by her family and friends.
In addition to her parents, Gerda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William.
Visitation
Funeral Service
Graveside Service
Posted by:
Kan PaiPosted on:
January 12, 2026Gerda was like a second mother to me. Maybe she did not feel this way, but she was in my eyes. She made me feel at home, when I was hundreds of mile from my nearest relative. I shall miss her and the love she expressed constantly by words and deeds. I am so glad that I accepted her invitation to ride with her that fall, in 2010, when I tried out the Lake Geneva Symphony. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.
Posted by:
Maria JeanmairePosted on:
January 11, 2026Rest in peace, Gerda.
Posted by:
Oscar F. CastanedaPosted on:
January 10, 2026Our deepest condolences to the Flaming family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sending you lots of hugs and prayers,
Northwestern Mutual Sales Support Team
Posted by:
Fr. Angelo Casimiro, MICPosted on:
January 9, 2026I will always remember Gerda's kindness and generosity toward me during my time serving as associate pastor at St. Peter Parish in Kenosha from 2011-2013. The last time I saw Gerda was some months back when I was at St. Peter concelebrating at a funeral of a former parishioner there. My deepest condolences to Gerda's family on your loss. May God be with you during this difficult time.
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Fr. Bill Hayward M.I.C.Posted on:
January 9, 2026From time to time I would drive with Gerda to Milwaukee. Throughout the drive she would chatter as a bird until we came to one of the bridges overriding the city. She would stop speaking, close her eyes and put her head down. She was terrified of bridges. Knowing that, I would drive close to the edge, encourage her to look up at the beautiful view and happily speak of how nice it looked below. The bridge from earth to heaven is a the Jesus Christ bridge. She has nothing to fear, she knows Him well. With many fond memories, I entrust you, dear friend, to God's Mercy and Love. My sympathies to Steven, Matthew, Rebecca, Megan, Jacob, Joseph and to you, her dear family in Germany. You are in my prayer.
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Betty Ruffalo JohnsonPosted on:
January 9, 2026I’m so sad to read that your mom passed away. We were friends for such a long time, but haven’t really been in contact lately since we moved to East Troy to being near Rich because Clyde has dementia and I just have my little piddly aches and pains. I always admired her strength in whatever she undertook, and how she cared for your dad. And she was a rock in so many things going on at Saint Peter’s church.! She took these with her strength and devotion. So many times when I came to Saint peters with Mrs. Del Conte to sing for a funeral your mom would be there arranging things for us so that they would run smoothly. She will be so missed by all, especially her devoted, children, and grandchildren very proud
Posted on:
January 8, 2026Please accept my sincere sympathies on the passing of your beautiful mother. Gerda was a pillar of spirituality and love. I was blessed to know her. I’m sorry I will not be able to be at mass. We will be out of the country. Peace.
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Jean L ThompsonPosted on:
January 8, 2026I am so sorry to hear of Gerda's passing. Gerda was an amazing, kind and caring woman. I enjoyed being in the Lake Geneva Symphony with her and going to rehearsals with the "Kenosha Crew". She will be missed.
