Robert Bruening Fling

Robert B. Fling (Bob) died Saturday September 3, 2022 at Brookdale Sandy Springs. He was 87 years old. Bob was born January 2, 1935 in Kansas City, Missouri to Wayne Anthony and Theresa (Bruening) Fling. He was one of three brothers, all who preceded him in death, Wayne Anthony and James Theodore (Ted) Fling.

He attended Rockhurst High School class of 1952, a private Catholic, Jesuit all-boys preparatory school in Kansas City. He attended reunions throughout his life. After graduating from Rockhurst, He graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He was a Certified Public Accountant and served as Assistant to the Vice President of Finance at the University of Tennessee before opening his private CPA practice in Maryville, TN.

He was a faithful parishioner at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Alcoa, TN and Saint Matthew Catholic Church in Winter Haven, FL. Bob was inspired by Catholic social justice teachings and was inspired to help those less fortunate. He was a long-time volunteer at the Blount County Literacy Council and served as a Guardian Ad Litem, child advocate, for Polk County, FL. He also volunteered for the Polk County tourism center, and was active in Democratic politics.

He retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel after twenty years of service. He served in the 134th Air Refueling Group at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base as a navigator. During his service he spent time in the Azores, Newfoundland, Alaska and Hawaii.

Bob married Patricia McLemore on November 25, 1977. They had a wonderful life of Tennessee football, travel, and friendships. They traveled to Australia fulfilling a lifelong dream. They loved cruising and traveled all over the U.S. - Hawaii, Alaska, San Francisco, New England, UP of Michigan, and New Orleans to name a few. After retirement they lived in Florida for 17 years making many good friends before returning to Maryville, TN in 2016.

Bob was an avid animal lover. He was never without a little dog tucked under his arm - Molly, Ruffie, and Angel or a large dog at his feet - Bo and Rhett.

He is survived by his loving wife, Pat Fling, dog, Angel, daughter, Caroline Johnson and son-in-law Donald Johnson and grandchildren Eric A. Herman, Colby R. Herman, and Alexander P. Herman, daughter Anne White, son-in-law Donald White, Jr., grandchildren Stephanie R. McMillan, great grandson Caleb C. Lewis, granddaughter Lauren White and son Lee Anthony Fling and daughter-in-law Bobbie Jo Fling and grandchildren Caylee B. Fling and Cody D. Fling, stepdaughter Lee Ann Lambdin and son-in-law Doug Shaughnessy.

Bob had a charismatic, hearty laugh and wonderful sense of humor which will be missed by many. He spent his last years at Brookdale Sandy Springs. The family would like to express gratitude for the excellent care during his time there especially at the end. The staff went above and beyond for Bob. Thank you.

A Committal Service for Robert will be held on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at Sherwood Chapel & Memorial Gardens, 3176 Airport Highway, Alcoa, TN, in The Good Shepherd Mausoleum Chapel. Online condolences and fond memories may be extended to the family at www.sherwoodchapel.com

Sherwood Chapel & Memorial Gardens

3176 Airport Highway

Alcoa, TN 37701

865-970-2955