Obituary: Jon Fleming, VEMS Paramedic, Age 36

John Fleming, age 36, of Terryville and a paramedic with Valley Emergency Medical Services passed away on October 3, 2012.

Fleming had worked with VEMS since 2008. Jason Perillo, the group's former executive director, said Fleming's passing is "extraordinarily sudden."

"He was just a fantastic guy, truly talented, always professional, always a gentleman," Perillo said.

Colleagues said Fleming apparently died in his sleep, though the state medical examiner's office said an autopsy had not been performed as of Friday morning, the Valley Indy reports.

Fleming leaves behind a wife, Joanne, a daughter, Charlotte, and two sons, Jacob and Carter.

Robert Pettinella, the current director of VEMS, released the following statement:

"Valley Emergency Medical Service regrets to announce the passing of Paramedic Jon Fleming. Jon was an outstanding husband, father, friend and paramedic that will be deeply missed by all. His passing will be a huge loss to VEMS and the communities he served.  Our hearts and prayers go out to his family from the entire VEMS family."

Services are as follows:

O’Brien Funeral Home
24 Lincoln Ave.
Bristol, CT 06010
(860) 583-7116

Calling hours will be held on Sunday October 7, 2012 from 1 to 5 p.m.

Funeral services will begin on Monday October 8, 2012 at 10 a.m. from O’Brien Funeral Home with a service to follow at Liberty Baptist Church, 265 Maple Ave, Bristol at 11 a.m.

Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, East Hartford.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jon’s memory may be made to Valley EMS.