Jack Cramer Flynn
May 16, 1927 — February 7, 2024
Jack Cramer Flynn, a beloved 53-year resident of San Marino, passed away at his Pasadena home on February 7, 2024.
Jack was born in San Francisco on May 16, 1927. His family moved to San Marino in 1934, where he attended Stoneman and Huntington Schools. Upon graduation from San Marino-South Pasadena High School in 1945, Jack enlisted in the Navy and served aboard the USS Chicago, being honorably discharged in 1946 as World War II concluded.
Jack became a USC Trojan and graduated with a degree in business and embarked on a career in real estate finance and development. He initially worked as a savings and loan officer, then became treasurer of Forest Lawn. Jack later founded Anchor Pacific Real Estate and Appraisal, developing The Patton Estates and Kaanapali Plantation, Maui among other projects. His office was in San Marino until his retirement in 2022.
During the 1950s, Jack became involved in the Republican Party. As president of the L.A. County Young Republicans in 1955, he played an active role in the campaigns of Presidents Eisenhower and Nixon, and Congressman Lipscomb.
Jack’s dedication to his community was evident through his leadership as president of San Marino’s Chamber of Commerce, his 50+ years membership at San Marino Community Church, active Rotarian, and involvement in other numerous civic organizations.
A 1995 San Marino Tribune article credits Jack’s conception of San Marino’s annual 4th of July celebration in Lacy Park: “In 1965, San Marino’s Chamber of Commerce Director Jack Flynn commented that it would be nice if the Chamber would coordinate a July 4 celebration for San Marino residents and their guests. Since then, that event has become another of many San Marino traditions.”
Jack also had a passion for teaching. For over 20 years, he served as an adjunct professor at Pasadena City College and later at Glendale Community College, where he was honored as a favorite teacher by many students who went on to careers in real estate.
In 1948, Jack married Jacqueline Nelson, who also grew up in San Marino. Their 75-year marriage and lifelong companionship were filled with love and happiness. Together they raised 4 children: Terrence of Honolulu, Thomas (Trisha) of Costa Mesa, John (Peggy) of San Marino, and Kathleen (David Bayle) of San Marino. Jack was a proud grandfather of 9 grandchildren — Braedon, Patrick, Casey, Cooper, Connor, Katherine, Christopher, Matthew, and Kerry — and 6 great-grandchildren.
In honor of Jack’s military service and his father’s own legacy as a World War I Army veteran, a Navy honor service was held at the Veterans National Cemetery in West L.A. on May 16. Organized by son Thomas, the family tribute was marked by a bagpiper and the release of white doves by his grandchildren.
His family is forever grateful for Jack’s long and love-filled life. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and service will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
