Mark Edward Flynn, beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on August 20, 2026, at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital in Dubuque. He was born January 15, 2001, and was 25 years old.

Private family funeral services will be held at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque.

Mark lived a life marked by remarkable intelligence, determination, humor and an unmistakable strength of character. He was smart as a whip, fiercely independent and never afraid to say exactly what he thought. Mark was direct, sometimes brutally honest, and could be stubborn enough to make it nearly impossible to convince him he was wrong. He also had a quick wit and a wonderfully funny side that brought plenty of laughter to those who knew him best.

A 2019 graduate of Hempstead High School, Mark was an outstanding student who earned exceptional grades. He began his studies at Iowa State University and later continued his education at Loras College. Mark was fascinated by many subjects and dreamed of a future in which he could become a doctor or engineer. He was also deeply interested in finances and business, always thinking about his next investment.

Mark earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 2019, an accomplishment that reflected his dedication, perseverance and willingness to work toward a goal. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed snowboarding, skateboarding and fishing. He was also an avid sports fan who loved Iowa State, the Chicago Bears, March Madness and the World Cup. He enjoyed chess, gaming and trying new things. Mark seemed to have a natural ability for almost anything he attempted.

In 2021, Mark became seriously ill, beginning a five-year journey that tested his remarkable strength and determination. After a year of illness, he improved enough to return to school at Loras College, determined to continue pursuing his education and his dreams. During his junior year he developed a short illness which caused his health to progressively decline.

Despite the challenges he faced, Mark never stopped fighting. Even as his illness became increasingly severe, he remained hopeful and adamant that he wanted to keep going. Mark fought with everything he had, fighting the good fight to the very end.

Mark rarely complained about what he was going through. His stoic nature often hid just how much he was enduring. He worried about things, thought deeply about the world around him and had strong opinions about the direction of the country. He wanted a chance at life — to learn, to work, to travel, to build something of his own.

Although the past five years brought extraordinary challenges, they also gave Mark and his family precious time together. His family sacrificed much to care for him, and they consider it a profound gift to have been able to walk beside him through those final years and months.

Mark came into the world quickly, and he fought just as fiercely not to leave it. He leaves behind a family who loved him fiercely and who will carry his memory and his wonderfully stubborn spirit with them always.

Mark is survived by his parents, Lesley Buse and Terry Flynn; brothers, Peter (Allison) Flynn and Thomas Flynn; maternal grandmother, Margaret Buse; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He will also be deeply missed by Olive, his beloved mini Goldendoodle and faithful companion.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, David Buse; paternal grandparents, John and Donna Flynn; paternal aunts, Deb Viertel and Jeanie Flynn; maternal uncle, Brett Buse; and cousin, Faith Buse.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, caregivers and Asbury paramedics who provided exceptional care to Mark, especially those who were with him during his final hours at Finley Hospital. Their compassion and presence meant more than words can express.