On Sunday, February 2nd, Jim Fleeker passed away with his family by his side at the age of 76.

James Robert Fleeker Sr. was born August 11, 1937 in Emporia, Kansas to Wesley and Eva Fleeker. He received his diploma from Roosevelt High School (1956) and received his Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Emporia State University and his PhD in Biochemistry from Michigan State University.

James was a member of the Eastern Star, Masonic Lodge, Shriner’s, and served in the Army National Guard. He was a distinguished professor, researcher, and advisor for thirty-seven years at North Dakota State University in the Department of Biochemistry. His research was widely published and he managed multiple labs throughout his career.

He is survived by his siblings and their spouses: sister Kathy Schultze (Kerk), brother Bruce Fleeker (Joyce), and David Fleeker (Marci). Jim is also survived by four of his children: Allan, James Jr. (Sergio), Jody Treuer (Rob), and Jacqueline along with his former wife, Janet, nine grandchildren, and one great grandchild. His eldest son, Kevin, passed away in 1999.

Jim enjoyed history, politics, classical music, landscaping, horticulture, home improvement projects, and was the family photographer. In addition to these amazing accomplishments, he will be remembered by his family as THE BEST GRANDPA EVER!! He was devoted to his grandchildren; he made daily visits to daycare, traveled weekly to eat lunch with his grandchildren, and rarely missed a family vacation with his grandkids.

Jim will be remembered by his family as the most devoted and loving father and grandfather to ever live. He may be gone, but he is always with us in our thoughts, smiles, tears, and hearts.