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Joseph Flynn Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Flynn
Marguerite West
March 24, 2006
To the Flynn Family,
I regret never meeting you. Joe was an amazing person and I know he must have a great family to be so special. Although I didn't know Joe that long, just about a year, I still remember the exact day I met him. From that show on, he and Meg became such a significant part of mine and my boyfriend Sean's life, it was odd if we didn't see them. I would always look forward to meeting up with him. The summer wouldn't have been the same without his smiling face and his awesome hugs. It was unbelievably painful and surreal to go to the same place I met him, for the same band, one year later, and have him not be there, dancing next to me. I only regret not telling him I was pregnant the last night I saw him, that Friday night.
We just had an ultrasound yesterday, and found out it was a boy, so Sean and I decided to name our child Riley Flynn, since we were both such good friends with him and would love to have our son to be as cheerful and loving as yours.
After we told Meg the news, she suggested telling you guys, but as I have never even spoken with you before, I thought it might be a little weird.
Either way, we all loved Joe so much! Your family and loved ones are in our thoughts. We hope everyone is well.
-Marguerite and Sean
January 11, 2006
December 19, 2005
December 16, 2005
December 16, 2005
Troy Flynn
December 13, 2005
Joe- I remember watching you skateboard all day. I ethier saw you skateboarding or sleeping. I wish you could see me on my skateboard now and teech me a couple of things. You will always be in my thoughts.
Your cousin,
Troy
Matt Kennedy
December 9, 2005
I feel like we have known the Flynn's forever. They have been a part of Mundelein since I can remember moving there. Rufus played for our son Justin's 8th grade graduation party. He was great and our first exposure to THE Joey Flynn. You could tell he walked to the beat of his own drum and was an independent thinker. Whenever I went to ACE, there was his smile and a nice hello and how are you doing. He always said, "yeah, I know, I'll say hi to mom and dad for you." I never realized how talented he really was until he was gone. This one hit us harder that many of the others and is still hard to believe. God works in mysterious ways and we rest assured that we will hear him sing again. I choose to celebrate his life and wish that I knew him better. Our thoughts are with Mike, Mary, Maggie and Tim.
Tears in Celebration,
The Kennedy's
Vicky, Tyler, Justin and Matt
john crand
December 9, 2005
Dear Mike, Mary Nancy, Tim and Maggie,
Both my wife Sue and I were deeply saddned to hear about Joe's tragic death and send our thoughts and sincerest condolences to the entire family. While we never got to know Joe, he entered our lives in a funny way two years ago.
My father had come back north for a few weeks and was visiting with us when he pulled a photo out of his pocket to give to me. It was a photo of Joe. As my father and step mother had been amazed at Joe's resemblance to me when they first saw the photo at your mother's, so too were we awestruck. Not only did Joe and I physically resemble each other, but like me Joe also was a musician. My then five year old daughter Hannah took to calling him "my lost brother".
From what I now know about Joe, the lives he touched and the passion with which he approached life and the world in general, all I can say is that Joe seems to have lived more than many people do in 80 or 90 years on this earth.
I'm sorry we never got to know Joe, and I'm deeply sorry for what you all must be experiencing now. I'm glad every one of you as a father, mother, brother and sister were allowed to have Joe in your lives as he truly seems to have done nothing but enrich them.
Sincerely,
John D Crand and family
Melissa Gunther
December 6, 2005
My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to the Flynn family.I am so sorry about Joey. I was blessed because i got to grow up with him. I've known him since the 2nd grade. Joey was a great guy, always had a smile, great attitdue and a great heart. He was always able to make you smile when you needed it. Joey i'll miss you.i just cant believe that your not here w/ us anymore. but now atleast Nicole has somebody to play with. Take care of eachother and I'll see you guys again someday. RIP Joey Flynn. I love you with all of my heart, and I'll NEVER forget about you!
Melissa Gunther
December 6, 2005
My deepest thoughts and prayers go to the flynn family. I couldnt believe it when i heard. I mean i've been friends with Joey since the 2nd grade, and I always thought he would be around. Joey always had a smile and a great attitude! He could always make you laugh. I know i'll never forget him. But atleast Nicole has a friend to play with now. I love you joey and i'll never forget about you. NEVER!
Dave Flynn
December 5, 2005
Joe – In some ways I hardly knew you. I’ve known you all your life, but we never lived near each other; we’d see each other for a few days out of the year at a family reunion and then it might be a year or more before we’d see each other again. Every time I saw you, you were a different kid. Still, I can remember many snapshots from through the years. I remember you playing video games at Bill’s Pub; nobody put money in the machine but you’d still push the buttons as if you were in control. Your parents thought you hadn’t figured it out, but you knew. I always got a chuckle out of that. I remember you, six years old, as ring-bearer at Uncle Steve’s wedding. You didn’t like being dressed in your little boy suit and you didn’t want to walk the aisle with the flower girl. But if you had to do it, you decided you’d get it over with as quickly as possible, and so you drug that poor little girl after you, practically pulling her arm out of its socket in your haste to complete your task. Do you remember that Joe? What a hoot that was!
I remember your skateboard years as well. I thought you’d never make it out of this phase of your life. How many bones did you break? I remember at least three incidents, and yet after each one you got back on your skateboard. I remember watching with you a skateboard “crash and burn” video, kids doing the most outrageous stunts and then falling over in a heap. I hafta admit Joe I never did get it. I couldn’t understand why you kept going back. But, on reflection, I see that despite being a bit foolhardy at times, you were a fearless kid. Years later, I could see that you were not afraid to try new things, not afraid to fail at first, not afraid to get involved when most others would have hesitated. You tried to live your life to the fullest, and I think you may have succeeded.
In the most recent years, you became politically motivated. I remember being surprised at first. Who was this kid who was trying to be the social conscience for his generation? Who was this kid who got involved in political organizations, trying to make a difference in any way he could? I saw a selfless side of you that I had never seen before. And just last week, at your funeral, the final snapshot became even clearer. I read the letter you wrote just a few weeks before your death. You described yourself as hard-working, honest, and loyal. In addition, your friends’ testimonies described you as generous and kind, and as a person who brought others together. As I listened, I thought what a fine young person you had become. You struggled through those difficult and turbulent teenage years and emerged a thoughtful young man. Your parents must have been very proud.
I regret that I never really got to know the person you’d became in your last few years. It seems your life had so much promise, and I grieve that you never had the opportunity to fulfill it. Still, yours was not a life wasted; it is apparent from the tremendous outpouring of love and concern at your funeral, that you enriched the lives of so many around you. I applaud for having done so much with the very few years you were given. May God have mercy on your soul Joe and may He strengthen and comfort those who remain behind and mourn your loss.
Justin Wilhelm
December 5, 2005
To the Flyn Family,
From the hearts of all of Joe's Chicago family I would like to thank the entire Flynn family for their acceptance of all of us. You made me feel so welcome around all of you, that I now consider you to be a part of our family. I hope to keep in contact with all of you. Words cannot express the love spread by Joe, but it will never disappear. He was a person that cannot be forgotten, and he will continue to bring us together. I Love You Joe. We can all be together forever and ever...peace and love Brother,
December 3, 2005
Joey was the Bob Dylan of his generation. He lived his way and his kind spirit was felt everywhere he went. He is be greatly missed but he always be remembered.
Heidi Trocha
December 2, 2005
To the Flynn Family,
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Joey was a friend of our son Chester. Joey was the person that turned Chester onto the electric guitar. I remember many an evening listening to the sounds of Rufus coming from Chesters room. He always spoke very highly of Joey and his music and his poetry. Please find comfort in knowing that a piece of Joey lives on in everyone he touched throughout his life.
With Sympathy,
The Trocha Family,
Chester, Heidi, Chester, Kyle, Colin and Ryan
mallory thompson
December 2, 2005
Joe had a shining soul and contagious enregy. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to know him.
John Hall
December 2, 2005
To the Flynn family,
I am deeply sorry for your incredible loss. These last few days have been some of the hardest in my life, but it gave me comfort to witness how much love and respect Joey received from so many different people. To me it was a verification of what a wonderful and inspirational person he really was.
Joey was my first best friend and someone I cared for like a brother. REAL people and REAL friends are few and far between, but he was defiantly one of them. He was the kind of person that I always wanted to be around because he could make me smile, laugh, and feel comfortable just by being himself. I feel am a better person for knowing Joey as he was and always will be a positive influence in my life. It was my honor and privilege to have been one of his friends.
I love you Joey and I will see you again.
John Hall
Joy Aho
December 2, 2005
I have always loved Joey! He was so fun to talk to and cool to be around. Seeing the outpouring of love the last two days I think was a testament to what a great person he was and the amazing family he is a part of. I think many people do not achieve such love and respect in 100 years of living that Joey was able to get in 19. I love you Flynn family. You will always be family to me. I wish you all the love in my heart and please tell us if we can do anything for you.
Love Joy
Taylor Tortorello
December 1, 2005
To the Flynn family,
My deepest thoughts and prayers are with you all. It breaks my heart to know that such a wonderful person has been taken from all of us so soon. I have been so blessed to have known and grown up with Joey. He had an amazing spirit and I am so greatful to have had him in my life. I remember attending his birthday parties and watching his band play. Joey was such a talented and intelligent person. He will forever be in my heart and my memories.
Peggy Billittier
December 1, 2005
Mike, Mary, Tim and Maggie,
Our hearts are aching for you. Joey was an amazing young man. We could not have asked for a better friend and band mate for Eric. They were so connected in thier love of music, writing, playing and expressing themselves in song. Joey's voice will live on in all our hearts forever. We will always remember his beautiful smile, that little hopping dance he did when he sang and his poetry put to music. Please know we are here for anything you may need at any time.
Ernie, Peggy, Ernie and Eric
Kathy Patzer
December 1, 2005
Dear Flynn family: After the funeral luncheon, many people came over to our house to be with each other. All of a sudden the music started. It was the band and they are playing their hearts out as we speak and I'm sure Joey is listening.
Maureen Mitchell
December 1, 2005
I've been fortunate enough to see Joey at most of the shows I've been to the past year and a half. I remember the last time I saw him in Atlanta at a String Cheese show in October. I always looked forward to seeing him everytime I went to show. Joey brought excitment and life to the scene. So many people miss him. I'll miss seeing his face when I travel. Joey will always be remembered for the amazing person he is.
Ron Thebault
December 1, 2005
Mike, Mary Maggie & Tim Flynn
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I remember when I would go to Ace Hardware anrd there was Joe working the cash register with the simple smile he always had on his face. I always asked Joe about Maggie and the family. He always keeped me informed that all of you were doing well. Yes, I do remember Joe doing homework in between checking out customers. I always told Joe that I missed Maggie on the softball field.
I guess Joe was a part of me in my life just your family is to me as we have become friends through Softball and many other activiies in Mundelein.
My son Aaron who goes to college and lives in chicago and told me he had just seen Joe teo weeks ago and I said to tell you he is sorry to hear about Joe.
He is heaven now and he still has that smile that I will always remember.
If you ever need anything please let me know.
The Theabult Family
johno pappas
November 30, 2005
you were a good man joe and may your soul forever be in peace.
Beth Weinert
November 30, 2005
My prayers and thoughts go out to the Flynn Family. I have been blessed to have Joey as a friend. I will always remember Joey; when we were younger him and his band played at my birthday party and it was one of the best times I’ve ever had. I am so lucky to have shared so many great memories with such a great person. Joey has touched so many people in his life, we will never forget him. He had an amazing spirit and he was one of the most talented people I have ever met. He was always so happy and full of life, he would always bring a smile to my face. I will always keep the memories alive and God Bless the Flynn Family.
Robert Crand
November 30, 2005
Dear Mike & Mary Nancy and I are so sorry for the lost of Joseph.You and Tim & Maggie will be in our prays.We still remember the visit you and the children had to the candy castle.And how the kids enjoyed dipping chocolate.All our love Bob&Nancy
Leslie (Maladowitz) Barnett
November 30, 2005
Dear Mike and Mary,
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ken Keacher
November 30, 2005
I can only imagine that most words seem to fall short after something like this, but I wanted to offer my condolences. I had a class with Joe and without fail he would constantly make us all laugh. He will be greatly missed.
November 30, 2005
Joey, Tim, Maggie, Mr. and Mrs. Flynn
I'm crying after reading all of these beautiful tributes to the even more beautiful Joe Flynn. It's so obvious that he touched everyone he encountered in all of the very best ways. Whenever I was around Joey I felt totally at ease, how could I not? He was such a genuinely nice and caring person. I can think of Joe's goofy grin and the way he could cheer up anyone, no matter what the situation. I thank God that Joey had such a fulfilling and happy life, largely due to his incredible family and friends.
Joe, I've truly never known a person all around greater than you. Even though you are gone physically, I know you are in a perfect place where you can watch and love us from above. We are all thinking of you every day. Family, close friends, and those of us that didn't have the chance to know you better than we did. Rest in Peace and I can't wait to see you up there big guy.
We love you
Amanda Devaney
November 30, 2005
I did not know Joe very well, but I was in his class and I do know some things. For one, he was very friendly, and had I enough time to have got to know him better, I would have liked to be friends. He had this easy going attitude that set everyone at ease. He also had a great sense of humor that would get us all laughing. His passing came as a complete surprise and I am partly still in shock, but I would like to give all my most heart felt condolenses to his family and loved ones, and say that he was a great person.
Reenie O'Brien
November 30, 2005
To the Flynn Family,
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Joe was a welcoming and warm guy, his love of life and jovial disposition was contagious! After meeting all of you at the wake today, I see where he got all of his wonderful qualities. He will be deeply missed by so many. You should be so proud of him, he was talented and amazing. God bless you and give you strength.
With sympathy,
Reenie O'Brien
Greg Coutre
November 30, 2005
Mike, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I am sorry for your loss.
Catherine Oblinger
November 30, 2005
Joey always had a way of making me laugh so hard. He absolutely had a heart of gold, and he will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this hard time.
Jason Ambrose
November 30, 2005
Mr. and Mrs. Flynn, Tim, and Maggie,
Joey was an amazing person. Since I was 5 and moved to Mundelein I always looked up to him as an older brother. He was an very gifted musician and will forever be remembered. I will never forget the concerts that I went to that he played in or skating with him and Tim. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Skip, Kim, and Jason Ambrose
Tony and Corina Leonard
November 30, 2005
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to your family at this sad time.We are the Parents of Tonya,Joey's friend....
Mary Therese Mescher
November 30, 2005
Dear Uncle Mike, Aunt Mary, Tim, and Maggie,
We were all very sorry when we heard about Joey. He was always so much fun to be with. There are only good memories when I think of Joey, especially our games of ghost in the graveyard, how he loved my mom's famous fudge, and most of all, his sweet smile. Please let us know if I or my family can possibly do anything to help you out. Tim and Maggie, if you need someone to talk to about anything at anytime, you know you can call me. Our prayers are with you. We love you all very much.
Marty and Cathy Olson
November 30, 2005
Mike and Mary,
We are so very saddened by your loss. Our prayer is for strength and understanding. May your faith support you now and always. God bless you.
Marty and Cathy Olson
Village of Round Lake Beach
November 30, 2005
Our deepest sympathy to the Flynn family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Mayor Richard Hill, The Board of Trustees and the Village of Round Lake Beach Staff
Cavan Berry
November 30, 2005
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. You have our most deepest sympathy and love.
Cavan, Jenny, Taylor, Kyle and Colin
Shelby Kilmartin
November 30, 2005
Dear Michael, Mary and Family,
My mother told me of the tragic news and my heart goes out to all of you. The La Prade family sends their utmost heart felt sympathy to you and your family. Tenderly may time heal your sorrow ~ Gently may friends heal your pain and Softly, may peace replace your heartache.
You are in our prayers and thoughts,
Shelby, Patrick, Peyton and Jack Kilmartin
(Granddaughter of Catherine M LaPrade)
Dede DeCaluwe
November 30, 2005
Mike, Mary and family,
You will remain in our prayers and thoughts throughout this most difficult time. Our children are truly a gift given to us when they are conceived and born. You have been blessed to have had such a wonderful and loved gift to share with everyone.
Peter and Dede DeCaluwe
Carlina Cancelli
November 30, 2005
The Flynn Family,
Many of us were blessed with the opportunity to get to know or at least meet your son. That was enough for anyone to find out that he was such a kind and amazing person. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are here for you if you need anything.
Joey you will be missed by all, you were truly a wonderful spirit to be around.
Love the Cancelli’s
Anthony Stawiery
November 29, 2005
Joey, you were one of the nicest people I knew growing up and I pray that God will guide you to absolute happiness.
Sara Flanigan
November 29, 2005
Mike, Mary, Tim and Maggie:
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Joey was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was not afraid to chart his own path. Joey could always be counted on. He will be missed but never forgotten.
Panagiota Trakas
November 29, 2005
Maggie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Candace Crand-Aleks
November 29, 2005
Mike, Mary and Family,
I was shocked to hear the terrible news about Joey! My heart breaks for all of you. I will always remember Joey as a little boy. I kept the picture you sent to Ben and I on the refrigerator for quite some time. I remember your last visit with the kids to our home in East Longmeadow, Mass. He was such a happy, vivacious kid full of energy. What a great afternoon he had with Nancy and Bob at the Candy Castle dipping chocolate! I will always remember that special day. I pray that you will find comfort and support in the days ahead from friends and family. I pray that God will sustain your every need whenever you call upon him for support. Love,
Cousin Candace and Ben Aleks
Victoria Shannon
November 29, 2005
My deepest sympathy to the Flynn family on the loss of your son Joe. Joe was my student at Columbia College this semester. He was funny and kind and smart and gentle. I will miss seeing his good-natured grin in my class.
Tonya Leonard
November 29, 2005
To the Flynn family,
I can't begin to express the devestation and utter sorrow I've been feeling since I heard the tragic news. Joey was one of the kindest, most talented, and creative people I've ever had the honor of being friends with. I feel very helpless because I'm in Europe at the moment, and I can't be there to pay my respects. To the family, I give my most sincere condolences. To Joey, never in my life will I ever forget you, and the wonderful times we shared. I will always cherish the memories of Claire's basement, discing, and our trip to Bonnaroo last year. We will miss you and love you for all eternity.
lynn castro
November 29, 2005
To The Flynn Family,
Please know that you are in our our thoughts and prayers.
Bob and Lynn Castro
Claire Karberg
November 29, 2005
Joey was one of the best guys I have ever known. I will never forget all of the good times we shared. He will never be forgotten and will always be in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Kelly Jadrich
November 29, 2005
Joey was the type of guy you just wanted to be around. He was so talented. We always said we had to get his autograph now, because one day everyone will want it. It just doesn't seem fair he had to be taken away so soon. I hurts my heart to start imagining what the Flynn family is going through right now when I think how broken my heart is. I have always considered the Flynn's family and always will!
Carolyn Dinsmore
November 29, 2005
To the Flynn/Kost Families:
I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I know there are no words that can ease your pain, but know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time.
Love,
Carolyn
Sandra Elkins Hagen
November 29, 2005
There are a whole lot of people who really care about you and your family. You have my prayers.
Janet & Tasneem Sharif
November 29, 2005
Dear Mary, Michael, and Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of such a great young man. Joey has been such a wonderful friend to our son Lee and he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time and always.
Janet and Tasneem Sharif
Karen Peterson
November 29, 2005
Mary, Mike, Maggie, and Tim,
Words cannot express the extent of our sadness and sorrow at this time for the loss of your brother and son, Joey. He has touched the hearts of many in the short time he was with us and Jessica will always cherish and remember him as the big brother she never had. Maggie, I love you with all my heart and hope your memories of your brother will comfort you at this time.
Much love,
Karen, Jessica, Jaclyn & Matt Peterson
Barb Lucido
November 29, 2005
Maggie and Flynn family,
I was so sorry to hear of your brothers death. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Please let me know if there is anything the we can do.
Love, Mr. and Mrs. Lucido
Robert
November 29, 2005
I saw him Friday night. He was the nicest person you would ever want to meet. This hurts me more than anything I have ever felt. He was happy and always saw the brighter side of things. I will never forget him.
Susan Campbell
November 29, 2005
Myself and my husband Greg are the parents of Patrick Campbell, a good friend of Joe's. I know by the degree of devestation felt by Joe's friends that he was a dear and special boy. I wake up every morning this week with prayers for you, his parents. Respectfully, Susan and Greg
Marni Grim
November 29, 2005
We went to the same open mic last year... you were a tough act to follow. I was so nervous seeing THE Joey Flynn watch me. I joined SFJ just so I could try to get the courage to talk to you, and then there you were, right infront of me. You told Leah you thought my voice was "amazing" and to date, it is the best compliment I've ever received... because it was from you.
You were the definition of cool.
Now you will always be cool.
You were on your way to being famous.
Now you're infamous.
You are a legend.
Nicholas Drewanz
November 29, 2005
Joey, you were a great friend and I am lucky I got to be your friend. I will never forget the times we had. You will always be loved and remembered.
Jessica Stelzer
November 29, 2005
The Flynn Family,
The entire town of Mundelein and the families of all of Joey's friends are behind you and here for you 110%. There is no better person ANY of us could have asked for as a friend and peer. As I reflect, Joey was a true inspiration and role model for us because of his integrity, honesty, and drive. The only thought I wish to leave you with is this-an act of God does not come without meaning or a reason. Joey and Nicole are watching over all of us in peace and for that I am eternally grateful.
Steven Bergquist
November 28, 2005
I was at school today and I heard of a former student who had died and i didnt know who it was. My 4th period teacher who teachs english knew him. She said "when ever joey would walk into the english office everyone was like hey how are u, hows school, and joey would talk with all the teachers and it was like he was one of the teachers because of how smart and intelligent he was." I came home and i still didnt really know whos the one who passed away until my mom showed me a picture in the newspaper. i used to skate with joey at triple R skate park which is closed down now. Even though i know he didnt skate much he still had some talent and it was always fun to skate with him and it just makes me devestated to know he is gone. He used to come to hang out with my brother at the house and he sometimes just came to my room for awhile to talk to me. He was a wonderful kid and he didnt deserve this. He was one of the great kids of this generation. He will live in our hearts forever. RIP
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