Pastor Jon Fleming aged 68 of Mecosta, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 28, 2022, following a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Jon was born July 19, 1953, in Medina, Ohio, the son of Robert T. and Marion A. (Culley) Fleming. He graduated from Miami University of Ohio and then attended United Theological Seminary in Minneapolis, where he received a Master of Divinity degree. He was ordained by the United Church of Christ for over 37 years. Jon married his high school sweetheart, Diane Lazear, on June 11, 1976, at the UCC Congregational Church in Medina, OH, where the families of both attended.

Jon served two summers with the Christian Ministry in the National Parks in Yellowstone. He faithfully served congregations in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Ohio before moving to Big Rapids, MI. Jon lovingly ministered to the

congregation of The United Church of Big Rapids for over 22 years. In 2019 Jon was named Pastor Emeritus in recognition of his exemplary leadership at the church.

Some of his happiest moments were spent with Diane and Todd enjoying outdoor activities. They visited many National Parks and preferred to camp in wilderness areas where they could enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Jon and his family enjoyed traveling and participated in a Pastor Exchange Program in England for several months. Jon and Diane also visited other European countries. In his free time, Jon loved woodworking and completed many projects for his log home which he and Diane designed and built. Jon participated in many STAGE-M productions. His favorite roles were in their Christmas plays.

Jon will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Diane; son, Todd of Madison, WI; sister, Jill (Ronald) Linek of Medina, OH; nephews, Matthew (Martha) Linek; Nate (Jessica) Linek and children, Mason and Addi; Rob (Jenny) Root and children, Alex (DJ) Douglas, Belle, and Ethan; all of Ohio; father-in-law, Milton Lazear of Delaware and all Diane’s family members. Jon was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Sandy Root, a niece, Beth Anne LoPresti, and mother-in-law, Regina Lazear.

A memorial service will take place Saturday, July 9 at 3:00 p.m. at The United Church of Big Rapids with Pastor Greg Larsen officiating. The family will greet friends from 1:00-3:00 in the church parlor. A reception will follow in Fellowship Hall.

Memorial contributions in Jon’s name may be made to the United Church of Big Rapids or the American Cancer Society.