Robert Fleming, a key figure in the historic triumph of the American ice hockey team at the 1980 Winter Olympics, passed away on July 31 at the age of 97.
Fleming, who chaired the United States ice hockey committee at the Lake Placid Olympics, was a key figure in winning the gold medal, known as the “Miracle on Ice”.Fleming played a crucial role in American ice hockey for decades. He was chairman of the hockey committee at five Olympic Games and vice president of USA Hockey between 1970 and 1981.
Additionally, he served as director of USA Hockey for 33 years, leaving a lasting legacy in the development of the sport.
His dedication and service to hockey were 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, in recognition of their impact.
Before his distinguished administrative career, Fleming was also a player. He competed for four seasons for the University of Minnesota and for five years for the Rochester Mustangs of the United States Hockey League.
Outside of the sports arena, Fleming had a 43-year career at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he became Principal Administrative Director of the Clinic and the Mayo Foundation.
He is survived by his wife, Cynthia, his four children, 16 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.
