Kentville, NS
March 29, 1942 - June 18, 2024
Joseph Raymond Flynn, born March 29, 1942, in Buchans, Newfoundland, peacefully passed away on June 18, 2024. He was the eldest child of Timothy and Catherine Flynn, cherished brother to his six sisters: Frances, Mary, Carmel, Elizabeth, Eileen, and Nellie, and his brothers: Matt, Jim, and Tim.
Joe's early years were filled with fond memories of summers in Norris Arm, NL, and adventures at Red Indian Lake, where his love for fishing began. Known for his passion for fishing and sports like track and field, baseball, and hockey, Joe spent his youth enjoying the outdoors and time with family and friends across Buchans, Norris Arm, and Fortune Harbour.
After completing high school, he pursued further education at St. Bonaventure's College in St. John's, followed by several years in Finance and Mining. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Myrtle, at a dance in Buchans. They married on September 25, 1964, and embarked on a journey together that spanned nearly six decades.
Settling in Labrador City in 1968, Joe worked at IOCC for 32 years, dedicating himself mostly to the Control room at the Pellet Plant and serving on the Union executive, including a term as President from 1978 to 1982. His commitment to improving conditions for steelworkers in Labrador City was unwavering. Joe's love for Labrador extended beyond work, as he spent countless days fishing on Walsh River, snowmobiling, and enjoying time at the cabin with loved ones.
Family meant everything to him. Together with his beloved wife Myrtle, they raised four children and doted on eight grandchildren. His eldest son Donnelly (wife Donna, children Erin and Tyler, great-granddaughter Lauren), daughter Joanne (husband Paul, children Connor and Colby), son Sean (partner Melanie, children Carter and Brady), and daughter Krista (husband Brett, children Melrose and Hudson) were the center of his world. Another important part of his life was Christine, Andre and their daughters, Lea, Manon and Justine. Joe was the anchor of the family, a true patriarch who cherished every moment spent together.
Family vacations were a highlight each summer, often involving trips back to Newfoundland to visit relatives and pursuing his passion for fly fishing. Joe fondly remembered the laughter-filled road trips where he happily accommodated requests for hotels with pools for the kids. They also enjoyed numerous trips to Florida and weekends travelling for hockey tournaments. In later years, Joe found joy in fishing trips with his sons and cherished time at the cabin with Donnie and his friends.
He particularly enjoyed the lively company of Sean and his buddies, and annually hosted the Boxing Day World Juniors chili party at their house. He thrived on gatherings with loved ones, where shared meals, drinks, and laughter created countless cherished memories.
Following retirement, Joe and Myrtle settled in New Minas, Nova Scotia, where he spent the last 16 years of his life. In his early retirement, he cherished opportunities to travel to Ontario to visit Joanne and Sean and spend quality time with his grandsons. Living in Nova Scotia brought him closer to his youngest daughter Krista, and he delighted in frequent visits from his youngest grandchildren, Melrose and Hudson.
Always ready with treats and eager to share stories from his childhood, he was a devoted and proud grandfather. He revelled in family gatherings, particularly relishing the chance to host lobster dinners whenever friends or family visited their Nova Scotia home. He took great pleasure in serving guests smoked salmon from Labrador, a special touch that showcased his love for his Newfoundland roots.
Joe is survived by his loving wife Myrtle, his children and grandchildren, and a wide circle of friends and relatives who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Predeceased by his parents, Timothy and Catherine; brother, Matt; and sisters, Frances and Eileen, Joe leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering optimism.
Despite battling COPD for many years, Joe was known as an eternal optimist who faced his illness with grace and rarely complained. He fought to live until the very end, buoyed by his deep love for his family.
Cremation has taken place, as per his wishes. A celebration of Joe's life will be held later this summer.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to the Canadian Lung Association.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.
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