Thomas Patrick Flynn

Tom was born July 24, 1952, in Springfield, to George W. and Helen Mae Harpin Flynn, who preceded him in death. He graduated from Springfield High School but spent most of his life in San Francisco and Las Vegas.

Tom was a colorful character who lived life on his terms. Life experience was his main goal, he worked only to cover his expenses. Tom held a wide range of interesting jobs: equipment manager for a rock band, Candlestick Park vendor, gold miner, movie extra, and bar owner. Always interested in different forms of transportation, he worked as a San Francisco taxicab driver, Las Vegas city bus driver, and big rig operator throughout California and the Northwest. As a hobby, Tom read and researched history and loved to tell stories about generals and battles of The Civil War. He embraced the Vegas lifestyle so much that his wedding there took place in a Mexican restaurant officiated by an Elvis impersonator who was also a licensed clergyman.

Tom was devoted to his family; he took care of his mother and later, his wife until they passed away. He called his siblings three times each week, entertaining them with old family stories, historical anecdotes, and life in Las Vegas.

Left to cherish his memory are his sister, Michelle Flynn McCollum (husband, Greg) of Pittsburg, PA; brother, Michael Flynn (wife, Gayle) of Holland, MI; his nephews, Mike McCollum, Nate McCollum, Joe Flynn, and Zach Flynn; and niece, Maggie Flynn Doornewerd. He also leaves behind his cousins, Kathleen Flynn Clark, Daniel Flynn, David Flynn, Mary Cate Flynn Sennings, Donna Harpin Pickering, Ron Harpin, and Bonnie Harpin Boston. His many friends, especially lifelong friend Dale Moscardelli, also mourn his passing.

There will be no services. The family asks that you raise a glass to toast Tom with a smile. Tom didn’t try to change the world, but he changed the lives of all who knew him. Please share your stories with us through the Butler Funeral Home link.