John Edward Flinn, 86, of Earl Park, Indiana, passed away June 11th, 2016 at 10:30pm in Elkhart Indiana. John was born to William L. Flinn & Abigail Jewell in Watseka, Illinois on June 10th, 1930. John was the fourth of five children (Charles W. (deceased), William Jr. (deceased), Gloria (deceased) and Elizabeth Jane).

John graduated from A.J. Kent High School in 1949 and attended junior college in St. Petersburg, Florida before returning to Earl Park to pursue his passion of being a life-long farmer. John married Lea Rose (Sondgerath) on the “Blue Moon” of December 30, 1950 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Kentland, Indiana where they were life-long members.

“Jack” as he was known by many of his classmates was an accomplished athlete in football, basketball and track where he was a semi-state qualifier his senior year in high hurdles. His quick sense of humor, story-telling acumen and ability to make friends were admired traits that attracted people to him. Some of his passions include beer & wine making, gardening, watching sports and spending many hours ‘tinkering’ around the farm. Being a savvy investor and masterful card player were additional skill sets he possessed.

In addition to a career in farming, John was the owner of the Kentland Theatre for over 10 years. In retirement, John enjoyed traveling with Lea extensively throughout the United States, Europe and Central America—where attending Mass and meeting the Pope in Rome was a highlight in their worldly adventures.

John is preceded in death by Lea Rose on December 29th, 2014 and is survived by his sister Elizabeth, sister-in-laws Carolyn Morgan and Kathleen Kwiatt as well as his five children: Sharon Flinn of Columbus, Ohio; Joni (Terry) Vale of Nashville, Tennessee; Bridget (Michael) Elijah of Elkhart, Indiana; Colleen (Barry) Brisben of Golden, Colorado, and John Geoffrey (Heather) Flinn of McCordsville, Indiana.

He is survived by ten grandchildren: Suzanne Burch (husband: Mark), April White, Jason Vale (wife: Rhonda), Joel Elijah (wife: Laura), Joshua Elijah, Michaela Elijah, Macy Brisben, Haley Brisben, Austin Flinn & Alec Flinn.

Great grandchildren include: Sierra Henry (husband: James), Rachel White, Lacy (husband: Pablo) Numbla, Justin Vale, Vanessa Vale, Elizabeth Rose Elijah and Abigail Elijah. Great great grandchildren include Elijah and Jeremiah Henry.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to St. Joseph Catholic Church.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, June 14th from 4-8p.m. CST followed by the Rosary at Stitz-Clapper Funeral Home in Kentland, IN. Mass will be celebrated 11a.m. on Wednesday June 15th at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with burial immediately following services.

Share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com.