Prominent LaPorte businessman and entrepreneur Jim Fleming, who started the Aero Metals product desig
n firm in his garage in 1961, died Friday, July 2, 2010. He was 75.
“It’s the classic American business story,” Aero Metals’ website notes of Fleming’s careeer. “The company began in his garage as a tool making and product design company. His entrepreneurial spirit coupled with his commitment to providing innovative designs and quality tools to produce those designs fueled his growth. In the late 1960s he saw a need for quality commercial investment castings and filled it. So, with that same spirit and commitment, he quickly became known as one of the early pioneers of commercial and aerospace investment castings.”
Fleming was outspoken to Indiana representatives in the U.S. House and Senate over the years, explaining to them what changes needed to be made to keep U.S. businesses from moving to other countries. He fought to keep his company strong in LaPorte as the exodus of other firms took place.
He was also very active in local organizations and charities, particularly LaPorte Hospital and its foundation.
To view his obituary on WNLP, click here.
