John Patrick Lynch

John Patrick Lynch of Spokane passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born in Spokane on July 9, 1947, to James and Margaret Lynch. He led a life defined by perseverance, intellect, and service. He was a tireless advocate whose life story became a source of inspiration for countless others.

Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age 12, he faced lifelong challenges with quiet strength, meeting every challenge with unshakable courage and rare grace. As his mother often said, "He came out fighting and has been fighting ever since."

John graduated from Gonzaga Preparatory School and earned degrees from the University of Washington (Chemistry), the University of Oregon (MBA), and Gonzaga University School of Law.

John's career included serving as a Supervisory Auditor for the U.S. Government Accountability Office, working as a respected private attorney and CPA in Spokane from 1978 to 2007, and leading the Rheumatoid Arthritis Project as President from 2004 to 2024 (juvenilearthritisproject.org).

His volunteerism included serving as President of the Children's Home Society of Washington N.E. branch, member of the St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute Community Advisory Board, Judge for Moot Court competitions and Advisor for the Elder Law Clinic at Gonzaga University School of Law. He was also an advocate with the Arthritis Foundation both locally and nationally, earning the Advocacy Award in 2002 and the Inspirational Leadership Award in 2009. Additionally, he coached junior soccer for the Spokane Youth Sports Association from 1988 to 1993.

Swimming was his lifelong passion-a source of peace and strength. He cherished teaming up with his children and friends to complete the swimming leg of triathlons. He was an enthusiastic Oregon Ducks fan. He shared his unique perspective and life lessons through his two autobiographical books, "Tale of an Old Katfish" and "Return of the Old Katfish: One Pathfinder's Way of Living with Arthritis."

He was preceded in death by his infant sister, Betty Anne. He leaves behind his wife, Vivian, of 52 years; his children, Monica and Matt; his cherished grandchildren, Corinne, Lauren, and Ryan; his siblings, James and Shannon; and numerous nieces and nephews.

An Irish Wake will be held in his honor at the Spokane Club during the first week of April 2026. Details will be announced later.

We will miss him dearly.