[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 40 (Wednesday, March 8, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E287]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





              HONORING THE LIFE OF JOHN FLEMING AND FAMILY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TIM RYAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 8, 2017

  Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. 
John Fleming, his wife Suzanne, and children John and Andrew, who all 
tragically died in a plane crash over Lake Erie last December.
   John was born December 30, 1970 in Youngstown, Ohio. His wife 
Suzanne was born September 22, 1970 in Youngstown as well. Both John 
and Suzanne were 1989 graduates of Boardman High School and high school 
sweethearts. John graduated magna cum laude from Wake Forest University 
in 1993 as a CPA and member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. Suzanne 
graduated from Youngstown State University with a Bachelor's Degree in 
social work. They were seventeen year residents of Columbus.
   John worked for almost 30 years for the Superior Beverage Group in 
Columbus and the beverage distribution industry. He was incredibly 
successful, rising to President and Chief Executive Officer. In 
addition to his influential leadership in his career, he was a leader 
in his community. He actively volunteered at nearby charities, and was 
a yearly supporter of the Dublin Irish Festival. Above all, he was 
known for being a family man.
   His wife Suzanne was a devoted mother and passionate supporter of 
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the leading funder of type 1 
diabetes research. Their oldest son John was a sophomore at Oletangy 
Liberty High School where he excelled academically and was an Ohio 
sports enthusiast. His younger brother Andrew attended the Ohio State 
School for the Blind in Columbus. Like his brother, he too was an avid 
supporter of sports, and he also participated in Special Olympics. This 
family will be greatly missed by their family, friends, colleagues, and 
their community.
   I extend my condolences to their family and friends. These wonderful 
people will be dearly missed.

                          ____________________