David R Flinn

David R. Flinn, 79, of Aberdeen SD, passed away Friday, November 1, 2013, at his home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 7, 2013, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 409 3rd Avenue SE, Aberdeen, with Father Shane D. Stevens, Celebrant.

Burial follows at Sacred Heart Cemetery with Military Rites being conducted by the Sidney L. Smith American Legion Post # 24 of Aberdeen.

Arrangements are being handled by Schriver's Memorial Mortuary and Crematory, 414 5th Avenue NW, Aberdeen. Friends may sign his online guestbook at www.schriversmemorial.com.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, November 6, 2013, at the mortuary, with a Liturgical Wake Service at 7:00 p.m., followed by Masonic Rites. Visitation continues one hour prior to Mass at the church on Thursday.

David R. Flinn was born on October 31, 1934, in Raton, NM to William Arthur and Doris (Longston) Flinn. He attended High School at Garfield High School in Los Angeles CA. David enlisted in the United States Navy in 1951. During his career he was stationed in Japan, Virginia, Alabama, Rhode Island, and California. David served two tours in the Korean War. David served as a Boiler Technician aboard the USS Essex, Wasp, Roosevelt and ended his career on the Intrepid after he assisted with decommissioning the ship. David retired from the Navy in 1974 and moved to Aberdeen with his family.

David married Shirley Maxon, on August 31, 1957 while stationed in Norfolk, VA. They raised four children: James, Jeffery, Julie and Jason. While living in Aberdeen, David worked for Hartford Steam Boilers as a regional boiler inspector until he retired in 2003.

David was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He was a member of The Mason Lodge #38 and The Mason Lodge #11 since May of 1978 and a member of the Yelduz Shrine since November of 1978. During his time as a Shriner, David enjoyed working with the Wrecking Crew and working at the Shrine Circus. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren, and friends.

David is survived by three sons: James Flinn of Eureka, CA, Jeffery (Lori) Flinn of Mellette, SD and Jason (Melony) Flinn of Fredrick, SD; one daughter, Julie (Doug) Seim of Watertown, SD; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

David is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Shirley, on July 12, 2013; and his step-brother, Jerry.