Last week we lost our son, our brother, our uncle, our friend – Bill Fleming. Our lives are forever altered.

As human beings we are all complex, and Bill was no different. He embodied the phrase "Joie de vivre" (joy of life) like few we have ever known. Whether cooking for his family, entertaining friends, helping design professionals, on the water rowing, or creating or facilitating PRIDE events, those that knew Bill experienced this exuberant personality.

But in the past few months the complexity of his humanity rose acutely. His joie de vivre was dramatically changed due to severe medication complications regarding chronic health conditions, the weight of which he bravely managed and carried. Like so many chronic health conditions, the weight eventually became crushing to him. He actively sought out medical help, and had friends and family providing emotional support every day. Thank you for all your help and support. He openly acknowledged to us that he knew he was loved.

It’s impossible to understand how the world can just continue to go on when one of the most valuable human beings has left our lives.

Bill’s family includes his mom, Irene Fleming, uncle Ralph Menconi, siblings Tracy Swyst and Scott Fleming, brother and sister-in-law, Thomas Swyst and Kathi Johnson, and five nieces and nephews, Ruby and Ben Swyst, Ellirene, Veronica, and Presley Fleming. Stanley the cat should also be mentioned, as well, as he was among Bill’s countless friends and fans.

Respecting Bill’s wishes, we will gather in a year to celebrate him. No formal services will be held at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a contribution to: Human Rights Campaign, online at www.HRC.org, or Gentle Giant Rowing Club, online at www.gentlegiantrowing.org