Arthur Ulrich Fleer

ARTHUR ULRICH FLEER January 7, 1930 ~ March 20, 2011 Art Fleer was born in Winside, Nebraska, a small town of 200 people. He was born in the front bedroom of his childhood home. Art had perfect attendance at school and only missed one day of work his entire life. Art passed away in Vancouver Washington, at the age of 81, after loosing his battle with Alzheimer's. Art attended Midland College in Fremont, Nebraska with his close friend the Reverend Carl Schneider. Art left after one year to start working in the grocery business. At the age of 19, Art moved to Sioux City, Iowa where he met Marvelyn Perleth. They were married Valentine's Day 1952. Marvelyn and Art were the happiest couple we have ever known. They thoroughly enjoyed their lives together for the 41 years they were married. Marvelyn died just after their 41st wedding anniversary in 1993. Art missed her every day, but he continued to enjoy life and have a positive attitude. Art was a veteran of the Korean War and served in the Air Force. He had a large American flag collection that he was proud to display. In 1957, Art and his family moved to Vancouver, Washington. They were active members of Messiah Lutheran Church for numerous years and made many long and lasting friendships there. Later, they attended First Church of God. Art loved his friends at First Church. He was part of the ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out) and the JOY group (Just Old Youth). He enjoyed ushering at church, especially during the Singing Christmas Tree. Art loved the Lord and shared his faith with everyone around him. Art worked at Pay-N-Takit in Vancouver as a grocery clerk for many years. He later worked at TP Food Market until he retired in 1993. He had many devoted customers who he loved serving. Art enjoyed working in his yard and garden. He planted many flowers for not only himself, but also for neighbors and friends. Art was always doing nice things for others. If someone needed help he was the first in line to offer assistance. He had a caring and forgiving heart. Art enjoyed long walks, reading about Northwest and American history, going to the beach and exploring cemeteries. Some of Art's favorite places were Multnomah Falls, The Columbia River Gorge and Cannon Beach, Oregon. Art enjoyed listening to classical music, The Boston Pops and attending the symphony where he couldn't keep his feet still and always had a big smile on his face. He also enjoyed other music. "Nola" was his favorite tune. The old hymns at church held special meaning for Art. Art was preceded in death by his mother, Lisette Fleer July 1948; his father, Henry Fleer April 1954; his brother, Merlin Fleer October 1978; and his wife, Marvelyn Fleer in February 1993. He is survived by his daughter, Lisetta Henrichsen; son-in-law; Dave Henrichsen; granddaughter, Lorinda Ruth, her husband Josiah Ruth; and soon to be born first great-granddaughter, Rylee Ruth, due in June 2011. Art requested that any contributions be made to Winside Museum c/o Lisetta Henrichsen.

Arthur Ulrich Fleer

January 7, 1930 - March 20, 2011