Patrick Joseph Lynch

Patrick Joseph Lynch, 85
08/25/1931 - 06/19/2017
Patrick Joseph Lynch, 85, peacefully passed away Monday June 19, 2017 in his home in Long Beach, CA. The weekend before his passing was Father’s Day, where he received greetings each of his five children, and enjoyed his beloved grandson’s graduation party which included a gathering of many close family and friends. Patrick was born August 25, 1931 to Margaret Reynolds Lynch and James Lynch, who was a policeman, in Gort Co. Galway, Ireland and was the youngest son of six children and was fondly known as PJ. He and his family lived on Gorges St. and he was baptized in St. Coleman’s Catholic Church by Fr. O’Gorde. He attended Holy Trinity Catholic Church and CBS Schools in Adare, Ireland. His siblings included Anna McMahon, May Finucane, Michael Lynch, David Lynch, and Philomena Rhodes who would join him in the United states. Patrick loved all of his siblings dearly and spoke to them at least once a week.
Patrick immigrated to New York City on July 16, 1948 on the SS Washington and lived in Rosedale, Long Island, NY. Patrick honorably served in the United States Airforce from October 28, 1949 to May 5, 1953, serving during the Korean war as an aerial photographer with the 452 Bomb Wing from Long Beach. Patrick made life-long friends with team members from his squadron and met them every month for many years.
After Korea Patrick owned a Chevron Gas station where he met the love of his life, Martha Sullivan. One day Patrick helped Martha and her mother fix a flat tire. Martha’s mother was so impressed with Patrick that she invited him to lunch. This chance meeting eventually led to their marriage on September 11, 1954 at St. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Wilmington, CA. He loved her deeply, beyond what words could express. They shared forty-nine happy years together and raised five children. He stayed by her side during her unexpected death on December 5, 2003. He brought fresh flowers to her grave every week, kept a picture of her, and their marriage certificate in his wallet. He kept her portrait at his bedside and spoke to her every day. We know that they have been happily reunited in heaven.
Patrick was a devoted father and did everything within his means to provide the best life for his family. Where they lacked in money they made up for in love. The family was blessed with five children beginning with their daughter Maureen, followed by a son James, daughters Loretta and Eileen, and lastly their son William. Patrick maintained constant contact with his children, despite multiple phone and address changes, and talked to each of them multiple times a week.
Patrick attended Harbor Community College while working as a janitor for the LA school district and raising a young family. His determination paid off when he graduated with honors and gave a speech to his graduating class. Patrick had a long career as an insurance salesman and worked with John Hancock, Prudential and was even a Private agent with his own office. He was dedicated to his profession. He enjoyed helping people and many of his co-workers and clients became life-long friends. He always appreciated that the flexible hours that allowed him to spend time with his wife and children. His children remember him sitting at his desk late at night clacking away on a loud ten-key calculator.
Patrick was devout Catholic and attended St. Barnabas and St. Columbus church. He was a member of Holy Name Society Attended and Knights of Columbus 4th degree. Patrick was devoted to his family, friends, and community, which he showed though countless letters, greeting cards, phone calls, and warm in-person greetings. Patrick had legendary friendliness and would greet everyone he met. At home, he would welcome his guests with a cup of tea, with a couple of cookies. The family always enjoyed Sunday spaghetti dinners with Uncle Bill, Martha’s brother. Patrick’s grandchildren recall how much he thought of them through calls, cards, and gifts. He helped his grandson Jacob complete school and sports. Patrick was beloved by all who surrounded him. His limitless compassion, soft Irish accent, and infectious laugh will be missed immeasurably. He will live forever in our hearts and watch us all from heaven.
Patrick is survived by four siblings; Anna McMahon of Kildimo, IE, May Finucane of Tarbert, IE, David Lynch of Croom, IE, and Philomena Rhodes of Patagonia, AZ. His five children; Maureen Spurlock of Sacramento, James Lynch of Eastvale, Loretta Mosher of Coarsegold, Eileen of Long Beach, and William Lynch of Santa Clarita. His seven grandchildren; Gregory, David, Beverly, Christina, Stephen, Kyle, Debbie, Conner, Jacob, Ryan, Leon, and Olive. His five great grandchildren; Jasmine, Jayden, Beatrice Rose, Hazel Anne, and Jamison. As well as many other loving nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
Memorial services will be held:

• Monday June 26 - Rosary at 7:00pm at Luyben Dilday Mortuary, on 5161 Arbor Road, Long Beach, CA 90808.
• Tuesday June 27 - Mass at 10:30am at St. Cornelius Catholic Church, on 5500 E Wardlow Rd, Long Beach CA 90808 and will be led by Fr. Mike Gleeson.
• Followed by a burial ceremony at 12:00pm All Souls Cemetery, on 4400 Cherry Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807 (Space 124-125).
• Approximately 1:15pm - the wake will be at the Lynch Family Home, at 1524 E Marshall Pl, Long Beach CA, 90807
  Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401