Obituary of Kenneth M Flanagan

NORTH READING – Kenneth M. Flanagan, 61, died unexpectedly at home on Saturday, September 10, 2016, from complications of Type 1 Diabetes. Born October 29, 1954 in Lynn, he was the son of the late William J. and Laura A. (Costantini) Flanagan. He attended the Beverly School for the Deaf and graduated in 1971. Ken graduated from Peabody High School and North Shore Community College. He was employed by GE and retired on a medical disability. He lived for over 35 years in North Reading. Ken’s life included many hobbies: camping, traveling to Canada, New Hampshire and Maine; motorcycles, cookouts with friends, trying new restaurants and spending time with his deaf friends. He loved the Red Sox and watched all the games along with being a Patriots fan. His Irish Heritage was important to him. Ken loved his father and could repeat every sentence of wisdom and advice his father gave him to help on the journey of life and in death. Ken always greeted you with “Good Morning America” and a big smile. He kept a positive outlook on life while managing many medical conditions. He remained an independent person who lived an active life. His families of deaf friends from childhood to adulthood were his heart and soul. Fun times, many laughs and lots of cookouts and camping trips with his deaf friends filled his life. He is survived by his sister: Laureen Flanagan and her husband Ken Toleos; his brother: Dr. William J. and his wife Susan Flanagan; four nieces and a nephew, six grand nephews and one grand niece; many cousins and an aunt who loved and shared in his life. He lived with his loving companion of many years Gayle Irwin who brought great love and joy to his life everyday. They were a happy couple who shared each day as a blessing; both had attended the Beverly School for the Deaf. Gayle’s son, daughter-in-law and grandson in addition to Gayle’s parents and sibling enriched his life with their love and support. Ken also leaves his dear friend of many years, Michelle Jeremizin, who loved and cared for him like a daughter, and her daughter Hannah was like a granddaughter to him. He enjoyed watching Hannah grow into an accomplished young woman. Ken’s family is grateful for all the love and support Ken received from the deaf community of friends. He loved being part of the deaf community. Visiting hours will be held at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn Street, Peabody on Thursday from 5 to 7:30 P.M. followed by a family service at 7:30 P.M. Ken was a Type 1 Insulin Dependent Diabetic for 53 years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken’s Memory to the JDRF Diabetes Foundation, 60 Walnut Street, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481.