Lawrence W. Flynn, a former U.S. Marine and 47-year member of the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department, died on April 18 of kidney failure. He was 75.
Flynn, a Manhasset resident of 53 years, worked for the Village of Plandome’s public works department until 2004 and spent much of his free time fishing at Plandome Field and Marine Club or fighting fires with Manhasset-Lakeville’s Company 1.
“He was a very hardworking and dedicated man,” Flynn’s son Steve said. “He loved to serve his community.”
That love of public service inspired Steve to join the department.
Flynn’s grandsons, Christopher and Shawn Martin, later volunteered with Manhasset-Lakeville as well.
“There’s nothing like being on a call with your dad driving the truck and you on the back step,” Steve said.
Flynn served in the Marine Corps from 1955-62. He was stationed at Okinawa, Japan, as well as the Philippines and served in the Korean War, Steve said.
Upon his return, he married Helen, his wife of 53 years and moved to Manhasset, raising three children in the North Shore community while working for the Village of Plandome.
He also served Plandome’s village fire department and participated in several Manhasset-Lakeville activities, including its Minutemen racing team and bowling and softball teams.
“He really loved being out there on that water,” Steve said. “We went out there all the time.”
Flynn is survived by his wife Helen, sister Dorothy Christmas and children Theresa Braun, Steven Flynn and Diane Martin, as well as grandchildren Christopher, Shawn and Jesse Martin; Courtney and Kevin Braun; and Michelle and Aiden Flynn; great-grandchildren Shianne and Caleb Martin; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation services were held on April 22 at Fairchild Funeral Chapel in Manhasset. A funeral mass was held at St. Mary’s Church on April 23.
Flynn was then buried at Nassau Knolls Cemetery in Port Washington.
