Local obituary: Michael Flynn, 47, Norwood father of 3 and hockey coach

Michael R. Flynn, of Norwood, formerly of West Roxbury, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Beloved husband of Tricia (Hoy), proud father to Mackenzie, Bridget, and Gavin. Devoted son of John and Diane (Roddy) Flynn of West Roxbury. Loving brother of Jay and his wife Bobbie, Alicia Norton, Katelyn Cassidy and her husband Brian, Andrew and his wife Renee, and Tom and his wife Lisa. Adored son in law of Henry and Paula Hoy of Norwood and brother in law of Tommy Hoy and Theresa Peterson and her husband Brad. Michael was a caring uncle to his many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends who will miss him dearly.

Michael was welcomed with gracious hearts and overwhelming joy by his parents on June 3, 1978. He was raised in Boston in a home full of love, faith, and friendship. A graduate of Catholic Memorial High School and the College of the Holy Cross, he continued his education pursuing two master’s degrees.  Though his academic achievements are impressive, meeting Tricia at Holy Cross was treasured above all. Tricia is the love of his life, his best friend and soulmate.

Michael and Tricia quickly became a staple in their Norwood community, raising three beautiful, strong children. Married for over 20 years they have instilled in their children a sense of belonging, compassion, and drive to do right and serve the world around them by what they do and say and how they live. Together, they built a life centered on family, support, and cherished memories. Being a dad and husband were Michael’s greatest joys, and he showed it every day with encouragement, humor, and unconditional love.

Michael loved watching his children grow and excel. Whether a spectator or behind the bench, he was a constant source of support. As a hockey coach in Norwood, he had a remarkable gift for connecting with his players, encouraging them, inspiring them to do their best, and ensuring they always felt cared for, acknowledged, and valued. Whether on or off the ice, he was more than a coach, he was a mentor and role model.

Those who knew Michael will remember his big heart, his sense of humor, his loyalty, and the way he made people feel like family. He had a gift for bringing people together, lifting others up, and turning ordinary moments into something special. A simple day at Green Harbor or playing pond hockey was always something special when Michael was there.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and deep devotion to his family and community. Michael was a man who lived fully, loved fiercely, and made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend visiting hours at Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre Street, West Roxbury, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Theresa of Avila Church, 2078 Centre Street, West Roxbury, on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Please go directly to the church.  Interment will be private.

Family flowers only please, a scholarship fund for Michael’s children has been created. Please send contributions to: American Enterprise Investment Services, Inc or AEIS at 100 Grandview Rd. Suite 210, Braintree, MA 02184 with 529 Gift FBO Mackenzie Flynn on the memo line. To leave a condolence message for Michael’s family, please visit: lawlerfuneralhome.com.

This local obituary is published via Legacy.com and Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home. Want a loved one’s obituary featured on Boston.com? Submit your obituary here, or email it to [email protected].