The flags at city hall were at half mast Friday following the sudden loss of Kevin Flynn.
In a brief post shared via social media just before 1 p.m. on Friday, June 12, the city acknowledged the recent passing of the long-time city councillor
“We honour Kevin’s remarkable life, his lasting contributions to the community and send love to his cherished family and friends,” reads the post, immediately prompting condolences and kind words.
At the start of the April 27 council meeting, an emotional Flynn announced he’d recently had a CT scan done at Shuswap Lake General Hospital and learned what was initially thought to be an ulcer was in fact tumours on his pancreas and lungs.
“I have been advised that it is likely cancer and that it is inoperable, although we do not know for certain,” said Flynn.
Soon after Flynn received confirmation of a cancer diagnosis.
“At this point in time there are more questions than answers,” continued Flynn at the April 27 meeting. “As all those who know me − or have played sports with me − are aware, I wear my emotions on my sleeve and will be open and honest.
“That emotion may become very apparent as I fight through this situation with you. Humor, positivity, caring and love are going to get me through this. I will stubbornly fight this battle.
“I have had the pleasure of representing this amazing community for 20-plus years and work with amazing staff and elected leadership teams.
“I ask the community, along with my beautiful family, and incredible caring friends to help me fight this. Laughter and love are what I need.”
Flynn moved to Salmon Arm in 1996 and was first elected to city council in 2002, serving until 2011, and again from 2014 to 2026. After arriving in town, Flynn began working at Salmon Arm Financial Ltd., later serving as president and eventually taking ownership of the business with administrator and spouse Cathy Bartsch.
Flynn’s involvement in politics extended to representing the city on the boards of numerous local government organizations including the Southern Interior Local Government Association and the Union of B.C. Municipalities, as well as the Columbia Shuswap Regional District where he served as board chair for three years.
In addition to business and government, Flynn was actively involved in the local sports community, having served as Salmon Arm Golf Club president while also coaching and playing various sports, from golf, basketball and tennis to downhill skiing and biking.
Flynn was known at the council table for his commitment to community, his analytical mind, thoughtful questions and insightful comments and, as he himself acknowledged, being someone unafraid to wear his heart on his sleeve.
Read more: Longtime Salmon Arm councillor Kevin Flynn facing possible cancer diagnosis