Thomas E. Lynch Sr., 71, insurance underwriter

Thomas E. Lynch Sr., 71, of Broomall, an insurance underwriter and volunteer for veterans' organizations, died Friday, Sept. 19, of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at Genesis HealthCare-Wayne Center in Wayne.

Born in Philadelphia, Mr. Lynch graduated from St. Joseph's Preparatory School. In 1965, he earned a bachelor's degree in marketing from St. Joseph's University, where he founded and was president of the Marketing Club.

After graduating, he joined the Insurance Co. of North America (INA). He began as a marketing research analyst and with further training was promoted to commercial underwriter.

Mr. Lynch served in the Army from March to July 1967 before being released from active duty to complete his military obligation in the Army Reserve. He retired in 1995 as a first sergeant.

Despite illness, Mr. Lynch was active in a variety of veterans' organizations. He served as the military chairman of Stand Down - the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, from 1994 to 2004.

Mr. Lynch was a member of the Association of the United States Army and served four terms on its advisory board in Washington. He also was a member of the American Legion, AMVETS, Vietnam Veterans of America, Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans, and the Marine Corps League. He was inducted into the Chapel of Four Chaplains.

In 1988, he accepted a paid civilian position with the Department of Defense and was eventually promoted to staff supervising administrator, with the 338th Medical Brigade, based in Chester. His responsibilities included management of nine medical units spread over 12 locations in four states.

"He loved it," said his wife, Catherine A. Burns Lynch.

He received awards from the Department of Defense and several veterans' organizations. He retired in 2005 for health reasons.

Surviving, besides his wife of 49 years, are son Thomas E. Jr.; daughters Maureen A. Clark and Catherine M. James; nine grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and three brothers. A granddaughter died earlier.

A visitation will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at the D'Anjolell Memorial Home, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at St. Pius X Church, 220 Lawrence Rd., Broomall. Burial is private.

Contributions may be made to the American Legion, Box 1954, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206, or to Vietnam Veterans of America, 103 N. Bishop Ave., Clifton Heights, Pa. 19018.

610-313-8102