Joe Flynn

JOE FLYNN

Cedar Rapids

Joe Flynn, 97, died in his home Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2015. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids. A vigil will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories ending with a brief prayer service.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Lorraine; six children and their spouses, Rick and Donna, Diane and Dave, Mike and Mary, Bob and Cathy, Denny and Diane and K.C. and Kathy; 15 grandchildren; and 20

great-grandchildren.

Joe was a devoted family man influenced by the loss of his parents at an early age, by the care of his Uncle Ed and siblings, Margaret, Mary and Harold, and by the support of his loving wife. His long life allowed him to develop special relationships with his children, their spouses and his grandchildren and to establish many family traditions and happy memories. He was a man of strong faith and an active 60-year parishioner at St. Matthew Church.

His early successes as a teacher and coach in his native Minnesota prepared him for a successful business career in Cedar Rapids as co-founder of Suburban Lumber Co. which remains a family business. All his life, Joe was an avid sports participant and fan. In his early years, he played baseball and football at Winona (Minnesota) State Teachers College, captained the 1941 football team and set a school record that stands today. But over time, golf provided the best opportunities for family competitions, time with great friends, winters in Florida and a hole-in-one! These memories and many more will be cherished.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to St. Matthew Catholic Church, 2310 First Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.

They also wish to thank Joe's caregivers, especially Roni Ilten and Yvonne Schulte, the Cottage Grove Place nurses and Mercy Hospice staff for their kindness and excellent care.