Michael Anthony Flynn

Michael Anthony Flynn (“Mike”) passed peacefully into the Lord’s presence on Sunday afternoon, December 9, 2018, joining many of his friends and family members. Mike’s homecoming was evident as he left this world with a smile on his face as he took his last breath. It was his final gift to those left behind, especially his beloved mother, Verna Shaw, who lived with and cared for Mike (and he for her) for the past many months. Mike lived much of his life in San Angelo and was 61 years old at the time of his passing. He was born in Austin, Texas on June 26, 1957. Although anxious to live, he found peace knowing he would see his Dad again, Peter B. Flynn Jr. who preceded him in death on September 25, 1990. Those who were honored to be with him at the time of his passing found it quite fitting that God chose to take Mike on December 9th, as his father’s birthday is December 8th and his mother’s birthday is December 10th! Another testament to God’s hand in his passing. Born with a profound hearing loss, Mike began his education at the age of 4. He attended Helen Keller School for the Deaf and became a master of reading lips. In the second grade, Mike was the first deaf student to attend public school in Tom Green County. Many who grew up with Mike will state that they had no idea of the extent of Mike’s hearing loss. Our family saw first-hand that when God decides to take away one of our senses, He often amps up our other talents. At the age of four, Mike fixed a broken toaster and a few years later he figured out how to make the dashboard of our Dad’s car work again. A feat that not even the dealership could accomplish! Mike graduated from Central High School in 1976 and later graduated from Dental Technician School, and Automotive School and became a master mechanic. He was incredibly talented, liked things done the “right” way, and treated people fairly. Years later, he started a window and blind business, “Classic Window Solutions,” and once again his perfectionism won him many loyal customers. He was a craftsman in every sense of the word. He rebuilt his home from the ground up along with several cars and a jet boat. He collected and rebuilt guns and enjoyed target shooting. In his early years, he was quite the shot with his bb gun. Mike forever had a project – whether it was building forts in the Red Arroyo or rebuilding fences. His childhood was filled with Scouting as he earned all of his Eagle Scout merit badges under his Scout Master JT Henderson whom he loved and respected. With no exception, however, Michael’s ability to train his service dogs was second to none. Rachel, his beloved shepherd that passed several years ago, and Maggie, his surviving service dog, had their own language. When lunch time came, Maggie and Mike would head to one of their favorite restaurants. Upon entering, Mike would ask Maggie to select the table. She would find one that was unoccupied and wait patiently next to the table until Mike ordered his food and joined her. His command was never compromised, as he trained with tremendous love and undeniable patience. Maggie will choose the best seat in the house at the service this Saturday. Her final act as his service dog. Michael is survived by his mother, Verna Shaw, and siblings Colleen and David Hair of San Angelo, Elizabeth Flynn Tucker of Austin, Patrick Flynn of Kerrville, and Peter Flynn of San Angelo. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Darcy and Lucas Cauley, Sidney Tucker, Allie and Garrett Eagle, Michaela Flynn, Jack Flynn, and Maggie Flynn. And of course, his beloved dog, Maggie. The family would like to thank the following special friends for all their kindness: Tony and Lauren Palmer and daughter Cassie, Dan and Deana Martin, David and Terry Snider, Becky and Mike Anderson, Mike and Angela Smith and children Bryce and Elaina, Mandy Sosa, Gabby Castro, Sarai Prather-Cox and other staff at Kindred Hospice including Ron Landers who went far beyond his duties as chaplain to minister to Mike in his last months. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, December 15, 2018 at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church with Reverend Tim Davenport and Chaplain Ron Landers officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be sent to Concho Valleys PAWS, Cassie’s Place, or your favorite charity.