Robert Fleming, 1980 “Miracle on Ice” leader, passes away

Robert Fleming, Former President of the U.S. Olympic Ice Hockey Committee, Dies

The ice hockey world mourns the loss of Robert Fleming, former president of the U.S. ice hockey committee during the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics, known for the historic “Miracle on Ice.” Fleming passed away on July 31 at the age of 97. Fleming led the ice hockey committee in five editions of the Olympic Games and served as vice president of USA Hockey between 1970 and 1981. In addition, he was a director of USA Hockey for 33 years, leaving a significant mark on the development of the sport in the United States.

His dedication to hockey was recognized with the Lester Patrick Award on two occasions, once for his work with the 1980 team and again for his outstanding individual contribution to the sport. In 2004, he was inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame along with the 1980 team, a recognition of his legacy. Before his distinguished administrative career, Fleming also had a career as a player, competing for four seasons for the University of Minnesota and five years for the Rochester Mustangs of the U.S. Hockey League. Fleming also had a successful 43-year career at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he became Chief Administrative Director of the Mayo Clinic and the Mayo Foundation. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia, as well as four children, 16 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.