LIVINGSTON COUNTY- Gary C. Flemke, 61, was sentenced Tuesday morning in front of tearful family members in the Livingston County courthouse for shooting his wife, Marcia Flemke, 58, three times with a shotgun, and covering her body in lime in an attempt to cover his tracks.
Flemke will spend 20 years to life in state prison. Numerous family members appeared in court to support Marcia’s son and older sister, both of whom gave statements regarding Marcia’s character and generosity as a nurse, mother, and religious woman.
“My mom was a nurse for 23 years,” said Justin Smith, Marcia’s son, through his tears. “She was the first person I would call with any kind of problem. She was the best mom anyone could ask for. She was very religious, and I know she’s in heaven now.”
Marcia’s older sister, Riki Harpest, was too choked up to read her prepared statements, and had to ask Dick Corrigan, her Victim Advocate, to read them on her behalf.
Family members said in court that before her death, Marcia Flemke wanted very much to leave Gary and move to Florida. District Attorney Greg McCaffrey cited infuriated text messages made from Gary’s cell phone to Marcia, daring her to come home and collect her belongings. According to the DA, there were already moving boxes in the Flemke’s home on the day of the murder, which may have caused Flemke to snap.
Flemke stood in silence in a tan prison suit during his sentencing. Judge Robert Wiggins gave a brief statement on his position regarding the case.
“Selfish. Both Mr. Smith and Mr. McCaffrey have used this word today,” said Judge Wiggins. “I think it is the word that best describes your actions.”
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Photo Caption: Gary Flemke mugshot. (LCSO)