Patrick H. "Pat" Flynn

PENN YAN - Patrick ("Pat") H. Flynn, 84, died peacefully at home on January 2, 2026.

Born in Penn Yan on November 20, 1941 to Patrick Henry ("P. Henry") Flynn and Marietta Taylor Flynn, Pat was a man deeply rooted in family, faith, and incredible work ethic. With few exceptions, he spent his entire life on Flynn Road, the place he proudly called home-often joking that he would stay there until they "slam the lid down on me."

Following in the footsteps of his father and those before him, Pat was a dairy and crop farmer. The Flynn family farm was established in 1896 by his grandfather. In the late 1970s, Pat expanded the farm's grape acreage, contributing to the Finger Lakes' rich agricultural tradition.

Pat also believed deeply in service to his community. Like his father, he selflessly devoted many years to public life, serving on the Yates County Legislature and as the Town of Torrey Supervisor over a period of 40 years. He gave his time and thoughtful leadership to the Soil and Water Board of Directors for 12 consecutive years and served as the Chairman of the Water Quality Committee during that time. He also sat on the Building Committee for the new Yates County courthouse. Pat led quietly and thoughtfully, known for his steady presence, sound judgment, and a "quick wit", a superlative he was given his senior year in high school and that he most certainly lived up to.

On March 31, 1962, Pat married the love of his life, Marilyn Fritz, at St. Michael's Church in Penn Yan. Together they shared nearly 64 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, hard work, laughter, and deep commitment to family. Together they raised four children: Brian Flynn of Dresden, N.Y., Shawn (John) Schmitt of Union Springs, N.Y., Patrick (Kari) Flynn of Corning, N.Y., and Leah (Jeff) Gallant of Dedham, MA.

Pat's greatest joy was his family. He was a proud grandfather to Justin (Marissa) Flynn, Carriel Schmitt (Mark Van Erden), Brianna (Carl) Arce, Jacob Schmitt, Noah (Bridget) Flynn, and Caroline Gallant, and he treasured the time he had with his great-grandchildren, Madelyn and Bennett Flynn. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret Calder of Penn Yan, and brother-in-law Ron (Phyllis) Fritz of Honeoye Falls and sister-in-law Kathy (Ron) Bulman of Penn Yan along with many nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors whose lives were better for having known him.

Aside from his parents, he is pre-deceased by his brother, Donald Flynn, sister-in-law, Nancy Flynn, and brother-in-law, Robert Calder.

Pat will be remembered for his quiet strength, his gentle humor, and his ability to command a room without ever raising his voice. He didn't speak often, but when he did, people listened. He was a man of integrity, humility, and deep love for his family and community. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, January 9, 2026 from 3-6 p.m. at Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, 201 E. Elm St., Penn Yan, N.Y.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 10 a.m. at St. Michael's Church, 312 Liberty St., Penn Yan, N.Y. Burial will be in St. Michael's Cemetery.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.townsendwoodzinger.com