Robert Fleming, Key Figure in the “Miracle on Ice,” Passes Away
The ice hockey world mourns the loss of Robert Fleming, who passed away on July 31st at the age of 97. Fleming was a central figure in the historic triumph of the American team at the 1980 Winter Olympics, known as the “Miracle on Ice”.
Fleming led the United States ice hockey committee in five Olympic editions. His influence on the sport extended for more than a decade.Fleming was honored twice with the Lester Patrick Award, once for his work with the 1980 team and another for his outstanding individual contribution to hockey.
His dedication to hockey was recognized by being inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, along with the 1980 team, in the year 2004.
In addition to his directorial work, Fleming had a career as a player, participating in four seasons with the University of Minnesota and five years with the Rochester Mustangs of the U.S. Hockey League.
Fleming also had a distinguished 43-year career at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he became the Principal Administrative Director of the Mayo Clinic and the Mayo Foundation.
He is survived by his wife, Cynthia, his four children, 16 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.
