JOSEPH LYNCH

I just found about Joe's passing and I'm heartbroken. Joe was a great, great person. Always had a smile on his face, could tell a good joke and could always laugh at himself. A great coach and athletic director, but even a better person and friend.

This past Wednesday I was saddened to learn that Coach had died last week. As I sifted through a bunch of thoughts some special memories came to mind. Here are a couple I'd like to share with Coach's family. Among my favorites, one occurred during Mike Rizzo's Senior Year. Coach started Mike on Senior Night and drew up the first play to get Mike a look at a corner 3 (at the door where we enter the gym opposite of the side where the visiting team sits) and Mike rewarded Coach for giving him...

I loved having Coach Lynch as our coach for Chanel, even though I didn´t play sports. I had him for at least two classes and he was a great teacher - one of my favorites. He treated everyone equally, whether it was us nerds or one of the guys he coached. When the girls came from Lumen for our Business Law class, he reminded us to be gentleman. A class act and a great human being!

Dearest Owen and your entire family. Deepest sympathies to you and your sisters and family on the passing of your Dad. He was such an excellent person and coach to everyone of you and your AAU teammates years ago. Your Dad is now with your Mom. Take care. Most Sincerely, Carol Ward (Small, Medium and Large´s Mom). Carol Ward

Dear Dave, Beth, Erin, Kathy, Owen, and families: I would like to offer my deepest sympathy and prayers to you. Joe was a friend, colleague, and mentor to me for 15 years at Chanel High School. He was an amazing coach, and an awesome person. I know his Family was his first love, with Basketball being a close second. I really admired his passion, and his will to be the best . We had a lot of laughs and good times. He will be missed. God Bless You, Joe...hope You and Marty are together again. ...

I seized any opportunity to trot out to Chanel and later to Strongsville to interview Joe. Some guys you just like being around. Joe was in the first row.

Joe was a next door neighbor, a friend and a boyhood hero of mine. I am so sad to see him go. My sincerest condolences go out to Dave, Joe´s children and the rest of the Lynch family.

It was always special when our teams played each other in our favorite league for the championship for all those years. You were an outstanding athlete, teacher & coach and positive influence to all who met you. Adieu.

Will always remember Coach - was a great coach and person, knew the game and more importantly knew life - Rest In Peace...make sure they play good defense up there -- !!