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THOMAS FLANAGAN Obituary

Thomas Flanagan, proud son of Ireland, Anam Cara of Pat, born Aug. 5, 1935, Corcoscony, Co. Leitrim, Ireland, passed away on March 30, 2012 in Sebeka, MN. Tom immigrated to the USA at age 19, and served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict, and was a decorated Korean War Veteran. A Master Barman of the tradition of Ireland, Tom led a full and joyous life, was quick with a joke, gave many a helping hand, and was a grand seanachie. Predeceased by his parents, Patrick and Margaret Ellen (Kelly) Flanagan, Co. Leitrim, Ireland; brothers Frank and Jim; sister-in-law Janelle Gavin; and friend/acquired son "Sligo" Jack Finan. Tom is survived and lovingly remembered by his devoted companion and wife of 37 years Patricia H. Gavin. Kind and gentle father of Dr. Margaret Ellen Flanagan-Jones (Trevor) Dublin, Ireland, and Elizabeth Ann Flanagan-Montie (Kyle) Sebeka, MN, who, in her loyalty and love assisted in his care-giving throughout his illnesses; siblings Jack, Bridget, Molly, Margaret and Terry. Special friend to many during his many years at the 6511 Club in Chicago, IL, Tom and family relocated to Sebeka, MN during 2001. Throughout his many years in Chicago, Tom was an active and highly devoted champion of traditional Irish music, relocated Irish, and Irish Americans. Through him, many Irish traditions continue to this day because of his activities and philanthropy. May he rest in peace, with the wind at his back and sunshine on his shoulders. Disposition by cremation, visitation Monday, April 9, 2012, at 10 a.m. preceding Mass at Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary Church, Menagha, MN. Memorial luncheon following the service.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Apr. 4, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for THOMAS FLANAGAN

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Tony, Marian Sullivan and family.

April 15, 2012

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Robert LeGear

April 9, 2012

Sincerest condolences to Pat and her girls on their loss. Tom was a valued friend and councel to our family going back to the 1960's. So many fond memories of Tom, his brother Frank with Fahy, Sligo Jack and a gang at the 6511 Club. ... R.I.P. - R. LeGear

Diana Oboikovitz

April 7, 2012

To Pat and the girls,
May you feel comfort in knowing how many lives Tom has touched. It was a privilege to know Tom and you. My his loving memories be with you today and always. He is safely home. God be with you and bless you. Diana Oboikovitz

Joe & Margaret McPartlin

April 7, 2012

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

John Devitt

April 7, 2012

Happy Sunday, Tom would say with the first drink ordered on Sunday on the house and he would share a box of KFC. They were tough times in the early 1980s for the patrons of 6511 and Tom helped many. I loved his unique sense of humor and inquisitive mind. I have wonderful memories of The 6511 thank you Tom. May God hold you in the palm of his hand. John Devitt Chicago

Donna Q. Gavin

April 5, 2012

We are all saddened by your passing. The world will be just a little darker. May the light follow you and the music move you along.Thank you for being here.

April 5, 2012

To the Flanagan Family-
We are so sorry for your loss. Tom is a legend in our family - he was very kind to my grandfather over the years at 6511, and our extended family was lucky enough to spend some St. Patrick's Days at Tom's place on 55th, listening to his great jokes and stories. His beautifully written obituary is a wonderful tribute to his life. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

The Family of Eddie McGee

Erin Gavin

April 4, 2012

It has been an honor to be Tom Flanagan's sister-in-law. He's been a part of our family for a long time, and will be missed. May you find peace and health and some really great jokes where ever you have gone in the afterlife. In this life, you were a legend. Love, loyalty and friendship.

April 4, 2012

Dear Family of Tom Flanagan,
We are so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. Please accept our most sincere sympathies and condolences to you all. May God bless you and hold you in the palm of his hand.
The Family of James M. Whalen
Chicago

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