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Michael Flynn Obituary
Michael grew up in Arvada, Colorado, and, over the years, lived in seven different states, returning to Albuquerque three times-a city he called home and cherished deeply.
Michael graduated from the United States Air Force Academy, where he excelled as a student athlete. He played football, threw shot put, and distinguished himself as an all-conference track and field athlete. His athleticism extended beyond his academy years, winning gold at the Senior Olympics in Nevada for shot put.
After graduating, Michael dedicated 22 years to the United States Air Force, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He was a skilled pilot who flew Hueys, B-52s, T-37s, and T-38s. He also managed the Nevada Test and Training Range, showcasing his leadership in critical national defense operations. Following his Air Force career, Michael spent 20 years working for the Department of Energy, where he managed operations for the Office of Secure Transport under the National Nuclear Security Administration and retired as the head of security for Livermore National Laboratory.
Michael was deeply involved in his community. He served on the Bernalillo County Board of Ethics and was an avid recruiter for the Air Force Academy, inspiring the next generation of leaders.
A man of many passions, Michael loved biking, skiing, golfing, fly fishing, and spending time with his family, which always included at least a couple dogs. He traveled extensively and could name any town he had visited based on the food he had enjoyed there. He was a devoted fan of the Denver Broncos and Air Force athletics, and his favorite band was Coldplay-a soundtrack that accompanied his love for life.
Above all, Michael was a man of faith, kindness, and integrity. His legacy is one of mentorship, fairness, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Julia; his daughter, Bailey, and son-in-law, Ryan; his son, Kellen, and daughter-in-law, Kate; and his three grandchildren, Millie, Keegan, and Clement. He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service to celebrate Michael's life will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Faith Lutheran Church, 10000 Spain Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM. All are welcome to join the family in honoring his remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Michael's honor to Lyme Disease research at https://www.lymedisease.org/donate/.
Rest in peace, Michael. Your legacy of faith, service, and love will live on in the hearts of those you leave behind.
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Patrick Newcomb
April 23, 2025
So sorry to learn about Mike's passing. We were stationed together at Nellis AFB NV, and he was one of the finest officers, and finest men, I've ever known. Heartfelt sympathies to Julia and the entire family. Sincerely, Patrick Newcomb
Kathryn
January 30, 2025
I grew up with Mike and his siblings, Trish and Andy. We all lived on the same street in a great neighborhood full of kids all our age. Mike was the same age as my older brother, then Andy and I were the same age, with Trish between us all. The Flynn's were a huge part of my childhood as our parent's were best friends and traveled together, while us kids were left in the hands of a babysitter, usually Karen Quinn. We spent a lot of time at Al's Ski Hut and Sporting Goods, which Mike's dad owned. I remember the five of us all getting identical skis one year for Christmas. I also saw my first set of Nike shoes on Mike's feet as they were unheard of at the time. I called them Mike's Nike's, but found out later they were not pronounced the same. Mike was always like a second brother to me and always kind. My family also spent a lot of time ballooning with the Flynn family, mostly helping with set up and take down, but in between being on the chase crew for Shoren Begorrah, the famous green and white hot air balloon with shamrocks. The picture I have attached was when we were in Snowmass and the balloon landed on top of a mountain, it was a long hike in and a long one out, we were exhausted, but we all felt comfort sitting on the packed balloon before we hauled it out.
Always great times and way too early in the morning! I didn't keep up with Mike after he left Regis and went to the Air Force, but I did know about his family through his parents and sister.
Gone way too soon. Rest in Peace Mike Flynn.
Chris Norfolk
January 27, 2025
Mike there is no question that you left us to soon, and you will be missed by many. Thank you for your service and it was an honor to work with you. Rest in Peace my fellow Air Force brother.
Bill Goold
January 23, 2025
Mike was a dedicated servant to his country. I appreciated his work to support the OST mission. He left this earth to soon. I'm certain that God has plans for him in heaven.
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Denise & Sherion Grant
January 23, 2025
Happy Heavenly Birthday Michael. Forever in our hearts.
Melissa Maestas
January 22, 2025
I was honored to know and work with Mike. He was a strong leader of honesty and integrity. He was always kind, positive and professional. My sincere condolences to his family.
MONTIE W. AVERY
January 17, 2025
SYMPATHY FROM MONTIE W. AND BILLIE S. AVERY
Don Thompson
January 16, 2025
Mike Flynn served our country with honor and distinction as an Air Force officer. Mike was a consequential leader in the NNSA. He was a devoted family man. It was a privilege knowing and working with Mike during my last few months at NNSA. I truly enjoyed working with him, and I miss him.
Don Thompson
Azure Sena
January 16, 2025
I am very saddened by this news. Mike was such a kind and caring person, always greeting everyone with such a huge smile. I was glad to have worked with you for many years at NNSA/OST. God Bless you, I pray for you and for comfort for your family. God Bless you Sir, RIP. Azure Sena & Family...
Jenna Martinez-Eubanks
January 16, 2025
Mike will be missed, so glad I got the opportunity to know and work with him. Sending condolences to the Flynn family.
Frankie Brock
January 15, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kelly Dunn
January 14, 2025
So very sorry for hearing about Mike´s passing. I was just thinking about him and waiting to hear from him and Julia soon. It was so wonderful getting to know you both and helping Michael since you got back to NM
Denise Grant
January 14, 2025
Sherion and I are truly saddened by Mike´s passing. We met Julia and Mike because our daughter and Bailey were college roommates. My favorite memory was spending the night at their home in New Mexico while on a road trip to California. When I think of Mike and Julia, I think of warmth, love and big hearts. Our deepest condolences to Julia and the family, Cherish the many memories and may God grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
The photo is from August 2016 in New Mexico.
Jeff Johnson
January 14, 2025
Very sorry to hear of Mike´s passing. I had the pleasure of working with Mike at NNSA but as dedicated as he was to work, he was significantly more dedicated to his family and faith. We had many wonderful conversations about both. I´m thankful that he is in a better place and no longer burdened by the illness that he dealt with the last 4 years, which he always seemed to take in stride. Prayers for the comfort of Julia and the rest of his loving family.
Jeff Johnson
Julia Flynn
January 13, 2025
Mike always made me laugh, plus was my perfect date for a party because he would do all the talking and I didn´t have to!
I met him in college when I was home for the summer to a "new" base my Dad had transferred to. Didn´t know ANYONE so made a pact with my middle brother (also coming home) to make friends with anyone close to our age...
I was the only person at the O club pool on a Sunday morning besides the lifeguard and he came in and sat in the chair right next to me. While I tried to read book, he said, "You seem like a nice "gal"! Do you want to go out sometime? It would have been a flat no if it weren´t for the pact with my brother.
He came back the next weekend from a TDY in Las Vegas for our first date where he locked the keys out of his new car and we waited 2 hours for a locksmith!!!
He was always at my parents house for dinner when I called home from school (super annnoying) and all my friends loved him immediately.
He was enmeshed in my life before I even had a chance to decide if I liked him it seemed!
He was undeterred though and gave me time to think after his first proposal.
I REALLY did not want to get married right out of school but he genuinely met all the things that were important to me in a partner so I said yes the second time.
The next 30 plus years he proved he was all that and more. Thanks for your persistence and patience Mike Flynn. Thanks for being you! Love you!
George Youabb
January 13, 2025
My sincerest love and condolences to the Flynn family. I will never forget Mr. Flynn's kindness, leadership, and mentorship, which has shaped my career at NNSA. I still recall the first task he gave me my first week on the job. I chased that task out-of-bounds and contacted someone I probably shouldn't have. When I reported this to Mike, he said "Oh well, if they have a problem they can call me." It was then I realized the strength of his leadership and the genuine care for his staff. Rest easy, Sir. Your legacy will carry-on.
Dan Osburn
January 12, 2025
I am deeply saddened to learn of Mike's passing. I worked with Mike at LFO. He was an exceptional and talented leader. He was all set to join our summer Twilight Golf League team right before he got sick. He bowed-out that year but vowed to return once he was feeling better. I looked forward to that day and just always held out hope that I could finally play a round of golf with a happy and healthy Mike. Sadly, that day never came, My condolences to Julia and the Flynn family. I will treasure the memories.
Scott D Rogers
January 11, 2025
Mike was a passionate leader and I enjoyed working with and for him over many years at OST. He will be greatly missed.
Colonel Mark Hiebert, USAF (RET)
January 10, 2025
Mike and I served together for a year's unaccompanied tour in the 604th ASOS, Camp Red Cloud, Republic of Korea. Without family for that year, we spent countless hours together, both on and off duty. One particularly funny memory I have is of the Taco Bell commercial at the time that always ended with the Taco Bell dog and the statement that whatever they were advertising always had "lots if gooey cheese" - this struck our funny bone, and forever more, Mike's call sign to me was Gooey!, and that was how I referred to him from then on. Through the years of our friendship, I started every phone call with Gooey! and it always made us laugh. Every Sunday evening we would take the bus into Seoul to the Dragon Hill Hotel for dinner. We would discuss work, life and our family. Gooey, you will be missed, my dear friend.
Air Force Athletics
January 10, 2025
To the Flynn Family,
Michael´s extraordinary life of faith, service, and leadership touched so many people. His unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community is an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. From his accomplishments as a student-athlete at the Academy and Air Force officer to his continued commitment to serving others, Michael leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations.
I hope you find comfort in the wonderful memories you shared with him and in the knowledge that his impact will never be forgotten. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with Julia, Bailey, Kellen, and your entire family.
V/R,
Air Force Athletics
Tricia Barbosa
January 10, 2025
It was an honor and privilege to have worked with Mike; he was a model senior manager, consistent, fair, intelligent, respectful and sincerely caring. He set high and reasonable standards for all and executed them with tremendous grace and professionalism. My deepest condolences to his family and friends; Mike, may you rest in peace, and thank you for your extraordinary service to our Country and brilliant career.
Raymond Cascio
January 9, 2025
Michael was my mom's cousin and he came to a number of my volleyball games for UC Santa Cruz. Even though I only met him in my college years, his warmth and kindness towards me showed me the kind of man he was. I'm sorry for your family's loss.
Ken and Nancy Ford
January 9, 2025
We extend our sympathies to Julia and all the family at this sad time. He always made me laugh, especially when we would talk about camping with Grandma Rose and Aunt Margaret. I will treasure those memories. Peace is his now..
Dan Rooney
January 9, 2025
Oh so very sad to hear of Mike´s passing. Not only was Mike a classmate of mine `82 BinB, the "slug" was my track teammate for 4 years as I and the other "worms" continually ran loops around him every spring!
My deepest condolences to you all that loved him so dearly , cherish those memories deep in your hearts and minds. God Bless! "Here´s a toast..."
Ralph McCulloh
January 9, 2025
I am deeply saden by this news having known Michael and then conducting the marriage iof Michael and Julia at Edwards AFB and over the years keeping in touch. God Bless the Flynn family.
Karen Naylor, RN Nurse Navigator for Endoscopy UNMH in Albuquerque
January 9, 2025
Rest in peace Michael. It was always a please to speak with you on the phone. We never met in person, but I feel as if we were old friends. You always made me smile and I am smiling as I am writing this for Julia.
Rose Cascio
January 9, 2025
My favorite memory of Michael was going to lunch with him and his family when I first moved to California. He truly made me feel so welcome and let me know there was family close by if I ever needed anything. He was an incredibly kind spirit and brought warmth into the lives of the people he knew. I am so grateful to have been able to share that time with him.
Mike Cascio
January 9, 2025
It says so much of Mike that in all my many memories of him he is always smiling and laughing. I am sad that we will not be able to share more time together. Rest in peace, Mike.
Justen Parker
January 9, 2025
So very sorry for your loss. Mike was a great leader and a great person to work with. He patiently explained issues and humbly listened to gain understanding. I will certainly miss my friend.
LeAnn Brasure
January 9, 2025
So sad to hear of Mike´s passing. I have many mission trip memories with the youth at Sandia Presbyterian Church. May God enfold the family in loving arms and give you peace.
JoAnne Flynn
January 9, 2025
Mike and I grew up together as cousins of the same age. He was always funny and fun, game for anything. We stayed close through the years and he always made me laugh. I miss him so much.
joanne flynn
Lew & Nickey Monroe
January 9, 2025
Nickey and I are saddened by the word of Mike's passing. Mike was tremendous, a great colleague, confidant, and friend. In service to this nation, both in uniform and as a civil servant Mike was a difference maker. Though he will be missed, his contributions to the national security mission of the NNSA will last forever. May he rest in peace and bask in the glory of God's presence.
Lew & Nickey Monroe
Andrew Tai
January 9, 2025
Mike was always kind, patient, and supportive. Wishing all family and friends peace and comfort.
The picture included is from an office picnic in 2017 from his time at Livermore.
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