and ranching family. He attended local schools and graduated from Merced High School in 1976. In continuing his education, Bob graduated from California
Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo with a B.S. degree in Mechanized Agriculture, 1981. After college, Bob returned to Merced and embarked on a lifelong career in farming. Along the way, he became an award winning farmer in mechanics and sugar beet production; he fostered preservation of California wetlands and migratory waterfowl populations; he mentored others in the field; and he was a strong supporter of the agricultural community. In the broader community, Bob was a member of the Merced Elks Club and was the founder of the Flatlanders Duck Club. He was also a passionate volunteer fire fighter for the Mariposa, Madera and Merced County Fire Districts, as well as the El Nido Fire Department, where he was Volunteer of the Year in 1988.
Bob is survived by his brother, Paul Flynn (wife Teresa), and their children, Michael Flynn and Mathew Flynn, and by his niece, Season Harris, and his nephew,
Jared Harris. Pre-deceasing him were his parents, Frank Flynn and Patty Flynn (Pedreira), and his sister, Erin Harris (Flynn). In his later years, Bob suffered from Machado Joseph Disease, a rare autosomal neurodegenerative illness that causes debilitating ataxia. Yet he continued to live a full and courageous life, and focused on happiness however he could. He could not but help inspire everyone around him to be a better person just from knowing what he had to endure.
Bob’s family would like to extend their profound gratitude, appreciation and thanks to all of his friends and caregivers who helped to look after him so compassionately in his battle over the last few years with Machado Joseph Disease. Arrangements by Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home located at 1490 B Street, Merced California. There will be a private family burial followed by a memorial service to be held on a later date that will be announced. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the National Ataxia Foundation or to Hinds Hospice.
Bob Flynn passed away peacefully in the evening on June 26, 2017. He was laid to rest by his family during a private ceremony earlier this month at Evergreen Memorial Park. A Memorial Service for Bob will be held on Saturday, July 29th at 11:00 a.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home located at 1490 B Street, Merced California. Immediately following the service, there will be a lunch reception to celebrate Bob’s life at the Merced Golf & Country Club.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the National Ataxia Foundation or to Hinds Hospice.
Arrangements under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, Merced, CA.
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