John D. Lynch

Thousands remember John for his love of family, community

By John Howell
Posted 3/21/17

By JOHN HOWELL John D. Lynch, son of the late Warwick Police Chief James F. Lynch, who died last Tuesday is being remembered as a man who loved his family and the city. And there's also no forgetting his passion for politics, as well. He would have been

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John D. Lynch

Thousands remember John for his love of family, community

Posted

John D. Lynch, son of the late Warwick Police Chief James F. Lynch, who died last Tuesday is being remembered as a man who loved his family and the city. And there’s also no forgetting his passion for politics, as well.

He would have been honored by the turnout of elected officials and the politically connected at Sunday’s wake at St. Gregory the Great Church in Cowesett. Some, like Rhode Island Treasurer Seth Magaziner, never met John but have worked alongside many of his children who serve in state and community leadership positions. Others, like Kathy Lynch, a cousin, are part of Lynch’s extended family, or like Brian Flaherty, a neighbor whose kids grew up with the Lynch kids.

In total, somewhere between 1,000 and 2,000 mourners, some waiting as much as two hours, paid respects to the family who stood beside the casket and in front of the altar. Two State Police Troopers were motionless at parade rest at the head of the line in a solemn tribute to a man who filled a role of mentor, adviser, coach and sage to the extended community. But John was also known for his “one liners” and sometimes unique ways to resolve problems – like the helicopter.

Councilman Steve Merolla first got to really know John when he started playing baseball in the St. Greg’s league. John was his coach. John had a passion for sports and closely followed high school teams, especially Toll Gate football. As game day arrived, the weather was not cooperative. The field was a sodden mess. It looked like the game would be canceled.

John couldn’t bear to have that happen. Through his vast connections, John arranged to have a helicopter buzz back and forth across the field until the water was pushed off the surface.

Patricia, John’s widow recalls the helicopter episode like it was yesterday. She laughed Sunday, as nearby mourners listened to the account. She added John wouldn’t have had the helicopter at the wake, “it’s dry today.”

Former Beacon sports editor Deb Weinreich remembers how John was there to support his children at all the games.

“He was involved in everything,” recalls Merolla.

It was politics that former Mayor Eugene McCaffrey remembers.

“He was Phil Noel’s [former Warwick Mayor and Rhode Island Governor] right hand man,” McCaffrey said Friday.

McCaffrey, who was a year ahead of Lynch in law school, pointed out that Noel is gifted at meeting people and addressing political issues. But McCaffrey added, John played the essential role of heading up the campaign finances.

Rep. Joseph McNamara, chairman of the Rhode Island Democratic Party, sees it that way, too.

“Despite John’s busy life, he found time over the years to share his sharp political mind building the state party and helping many candidates and office holders. His wit and wisdom will surely be missed by all,” McNamara said in a statement. “I extend my deepest sympathy and prayers to his family during this most difficult time.”

Former Mayor Joseph Walsh, who was a law partner with Lynch from 1969 to 1976, remembers him as a great friend “for all these years.” Walsh said John did a lot of family law including civil suits, divorces and estates. He also did a lot of defense work, although family law was the core to the business.

“He was high energy,” said Walsh. Walsh said Lynch was in the office at 6 a.m., left for lunch and stayed to 10 p.m.

Attorney Henry Monti can attest to John’s work ethic. As a young attorney, Monti accepted a ride with John on one occasion and was startled to find a plethora of audiotapes on the dash. He inquired what they were, learning they were recordings of grand jury testimony that John was reviewing in preparation for cases while traveling between appointments.

It was John’s love for his family and the community that shine for Mayor Scott Avedisian. Last year, Avedisian issued an executive order naming John an honorary city solicitor. In the order, Avedisian cites how John grew up in Apponaug, went on to graduate from La Salle Academy, Boston College and Suffolk University Law School. He also notes his marriage to Patricia and names their children. The executive order likewise notes that John was captain of the LaSalle football team, “confidante” to mayors and governors and a highly successful lawyer.

Avedisian named John to the honorary post in recognition of “his significant contributions to the quality of life of the City of Warwick.” Last week, Avedisian ordered city flags be flown at half-staff in honor of John and what he has done for the city.

Walsh visited with John about three weeks ago. Walsh feels his friend remembered their work together and the times they shared, although Alzheimer’s had robbed him of so much.

“Whatever he did he was successful at,” said Walsh.

And, after a moment’s pause to reflect, Walsh added, “He educated all his kids. He did a great job with those kids, that’s his legacy.”

That feeling of gratitude for a man who did so much for family was poignantly captured in the words displayed in his casket.

“Some people never get to meet their hero. Mine raised me.”

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  • jacko3

    A great public leader, outstanding family man, tremendous community advocate and legal practitioner ... we pray to the True Living LORD & Resurrected Savior for forgiveness, remembrance, goodwill and PEACE!

    Tuesday, March 21, 2017 Report this