04/03/2026
The Berlin Veterans Foundation Inc. extends its deepest gratitude for the unwavering support & dedication of Pat Flanigan. As one of our founding members, Pat played a vital role in our data collection efforts & was instrumental in bringing the Berlin Veterans Memorial in Riverside Park to life.
His generous spirit, deep love for his hometown of Berlin, & steadfast commitment to honoring our veterans touched us all. Pat’s legacy will continue to inspire our mission for years to come.
Please join us in celebrating and remembering a true patriot.
Obituary for Patrick Flanigan
Patrick Charles Flanigan, a United States Air Force and Vietnam War Veteran and longtime resident of Berlin, Wisconsin, 94, passed away December 30th 2025. He was born August 6, 1931, in Pensaukee, WI to Francis and Marie Flanigan. His family moved to Berlin when Pat was in high school. He attended Berlin High School where he enjoyed playing sports, especially football and baseball. After graduation he enlisted into the United States Air Force.
In Berlin, his “hometown”, he met Nancy Krings and their 4 daughters were born into this union. After basic training, Pat attended dental corp training. He spent his 28 years in the dental corp and attained the rank of SMSgt. Pat had many tours through the US, Turkey and Vietnam. The US Air Force recognized him for his honorable service, awarding him many medals which include the Meritorious Service Medal, The Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam, and several AF commendation medals. He and Nancy returned to Berlin in 1988 to enjoy an early retirement. They enjoyed reconnecting with high school friends, being closer to family members and visits from their children and grandchildren. Then after 41 years of marriage, Nancy unexpectedly passed. Pat remained in Berlin and married Dolores Martin. They enjoyed 17 years of marriage until her passing. Pat became a member of the Berlin Senior Center where he was lucky enough to meet Betty Gross. They have been married for 11 years and have enjoyed traveling, sheepshead, shooting pool, competitive morning games of cribbage and most importantly, Betty teaching Pat the “best game ever”…. bridge. Pat was passionate about his country and service. He was also an instrumental member of the Berlin VFW. Most of all Pat loved family.
Preceded in death by his parents Francis and Marie, siblings Arnold, Maynard, Mercedes, Neita Faye, and Julissa. Timothy is the sole surviving sibling.
Survived by his lovely, beautiful wife Betty (Gross), daughter Susan(Roger) Thonton, Sara(Ward)Jenkins, Patricia Flanigan, Kelly(Steve) Hedrick and his six grandchildren: Jennifer, Ryan, Kelsey, Joshua, Alyssa and Taylor. And 9 great grandchildren Christian, Brady, Brandon, Zachary, Rosalie, Felix, Atlas, Orion, Elsee. As well as many extended family members that will miss him dearly.
In lieu of flowers , please consider making a donation to Berlin VFW 2925, Berlin High School scholarship program or the Berlin Veterans Memorial Foundation.
There will be an inurnment at 10:00 a.m.on Thursday April 9, 2026, at Oakwood Cemetery with the Berlin Wells-Krause VFW Post # 2925 presenting Full Military Honors, all are invited back to the VFW after the inurnment for a luncheon.
Pat’s partings words, “Be of good cheer”, “In peace and freedom” and last but not least, “GO PACK GO!”
