John "LJ" Lawrence Flanagan

Also known as LJ

October 21, 1962 - February 19, 2025

With great sadness, we announce the passing of John L. Flanagan, on February 19, 2025, lovingly known as ” LJ.” He was born on October 21, 1962, John was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, friend and a proud US Army Veteran, whose love, humor, and kindness left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

He dedicated 25 years of honorable service to the United States Army, embodying the values of duty, courage, and commitment. His military career was a source of pride, dedication and integrity into every aspect of his life.

John found his greatest joy in spending time with his family. He loved coaching his kids in a variety of sports, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm while shaping not only their skills but also their character. Whether on the field or the sidelines, he was their biggest supporter and most dedicated mentor.

Beyond coaching, John had a deep love for adventure. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, feeling the open road beneath him, and embracing the freedom it brought. Hunting was another of his favorite pastimes, where he found peace in nature and treasured the time spent with family and friends. But more than anything, John simply loved being with his family, sharing stories, laughter, and unforgettable moments that will be cherished forever. John never knew a stranger and made friends wherever he went, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

John is survived by his loving wife and life partner, Kaye Flanagan, with whom he shared a beautiful life and was married just shy of 30 years. He also leaves behind his daughter Lauren (Andrew) Jimenez, sons Patrick Flanagan, and Tyler Flanagan, and beloved grandchildren, Nash and Ivy Luna. He is survived by his mother Karlene Ullrich, mother in law Brenda West, and father in law Larry West, his brothers Michael (Paula) Flanagan, Jeffery (Barbara) Flanagan, and Shawn Flanagan, and his sisters Marita Roden, Marcia (Randy) Borell , brother in law Larry Jeanette) West, sister in law, Clarissa (Mike) Rooney. He was also a proud godfather to Courtney Flanagan and Emily Roden and will deeply be miss by his many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Patrick Flanagan, nephew Steven Flanagan, brother-in-law Dennis Roden.

He was a devoted family man whose love and guidance will continue to inspire those who knew him.

John’s love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In honor of his love of motorcycles feel free to wear your favorite Harley Davidson shirt, as we celebrate his life the way he would have wanted.

A celebration of John’s life will be held 10:00 am Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at D.O. McComb and Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, where family and friends will gather to honor the incredible man he was, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also from 2-4 & 6-8 pm Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at the funeral home. Committal and Burial will be 1:00pm Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Marion National Cemetery, Marion, IN. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana or Parkview Hospice.