William James Lynott Jr. The family announces with great sadness the passing of Bill on Feb. 23, 2008 after a brief illness. Born May 9, 1922 in St. Anthony Parish in Duluth. He was proud to have served as a Sergeant in Army Air Force Radio Operations in England and France during World War II. He attended Duluth Teachers' College after the war and began his career in sales selling meat for Armour and Co, later moving into life insurance sales, from which he retired in 1985. During his career he accumulated numerous sales honors, awards, and recognitions, including, after a rigorous course of elective study, the rank of Chartered Life Underwriter, the highest and most respected level of expertise among active insurance sales agents. Bill's life was devoted to his work, family, friends, community and his Roman Catholic faith. He was a member of the Cathedral of Our Lady Parish in Duluth, St. Anthony of Padua in Ely, and Holy Cross Catholic Church in Mesa. He served his community as Northland Chapter Red Cross Board Member, Virginia Jaycees President, Virginia Marquette School Home and School Association President, Duluth Holy Rosary Home and School Association President, and Nursing Home Volunteer. During the past 35 years, Bill continued his dedication to his faith community: Demontreville Jesuit Retreat Center, the Cursillo Faith Movement, Befrienders Community Fellowship, numerous Bible Study Groups, Eucharistic Minister, and Usher. As a well-rounded athlete, he served as an impressive softball pitcher during his high school days in Duluth and later in the Virginia, Minn., Men's Fast Pitch Softball League. He took up cross-country skiing, jogging, and snowshoeing at age 50. He had a great sense of vitality, humor and a tremendous belief in the power of positive thinking. As a talented, lifelong pianist and musician, Bill, played jazz and big band piano with a variety of bands for 60 years, and was still playing in musical ensembles at the time of his death. The love of his life and wife of more than 50 years, Mary Kathleen Lindbeck of Ely, passed away in 1999. Bill was also preceded in death by his son, Timothy John, who died in 1973; his parents, William James, Sr. and Claire Dillon; and his brother, Edward (Bud). Bill is survived by his sister, Virginia Claire of Colorado Springs; his children, William (Sandra), Kerry (Karl Everett), Nancy (Dennis O'Brien), Jon (Sue), Jeff (Genene), Kathleen (Bill Cox) and Mary Kay (Jim Berarducci); 22 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. The family is very grateful for the kindness, generosity and professionalism of the wonderful staff at Lyngblomsten Health Center of Saint Paul. MEMORIAL MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL:10 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008 in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Ely, Minn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Archdiocese of Saint Paul & Minneapolis, ATTN: Poverty Reduction Programs, 226 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, MN, 55102 (651)-291-4400.
This obituary was originally published in the Duluth News Tribune.
You are each in my thoughts and prayers in these difficult days of adjustment for you all. I attended and often reflect on the bible study at your parents home. They both were good leaders and it was a great study. They were always so kind and welcoming and were very proud of each of you, their family. God bless you all . With sympathy and love,
Deloris McNaughton
March 11, 2008 | Duluth,, MN
Dear Lynott Family,
My sincerest condolences in the loss of your father. I wish you all the best in getting through this tough time and keeping the best of memories of a very special person.
Mikel Cox
March 07, 2008 | Minneapolis, MN
Mary Kay and family,
How well I remember being in a bible study with both your mom & dad at St. Anthony's in Ely! Also listening to your dad's music. Every time I visit the graves of my husband, Frank and our son, Charlie, it brings back memories as your mom's grave is only steps away. Now your dad will soon be resting nearby also. So sorry for your loss.
Peg Likar
March 05, 2008 | Ely, MN
Dear Lynott Family,
Your folks were good Duluth friends of ours associated with Cursillo, singing groups, and the list goes on. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Peace,
Kay and Dick Studley
Kay Studley
March 05, 2008 | Sun City,, AZ
Dear Mary Kay:
I want to offer my condolences to you and your family. We lost our dad just after I saw you in January so I know it isn't easy.
Peter Fifield
March 04, 2008 | New York, NY
Kathy,
My sincere condolences in the loss of your father. It's been many years, but I still have fond memories of the old neighborhood when we were kids and also of you and your family. May your memories of your dad and family and friends help ease your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Tricia Shannon
March 04, 2008 | Andover
Mary Kay and family,
My heart sunk when I saw your father's name in the obituaries. He was a delight to visit with whenever he came to Duluth and anyone could tell how much he loved his family and how much he was loved.
Diane Pelinka
March 04, 2008 | Duluth, MN
