Charles Alexander Flanigan

Charles Alexander Flanigan, born on Sunday January 2, 1949, Son of Gloria and Benjamin Flanigan, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, IA. Charles began his journey home June 29, 2024, at the age of seventy-five. Charles was known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

 He was educated in the Des Moines, IA Independent school system and graduated from Des Moines Tech High School. He then received his associate’s degree in computer operations from Des Moines Community College. In 1968, he was drafted into the Air Force, where he served honorably as a Sergeant until his discharge in 1972. His commitment to service continued throughout his life, as he actively participated in his Church’s musical ministries since the 1980s. A self-taught guitarist Charles’ ability to connect through music was part of his light that he shined on us all. 

 In 1980, Charles was united in marriage to Mary Jo Boston, in Des Moines Iowa and together they built a beautiful family. He was the proud father of three children: Celeste Flanigan (born 1980), Amir Flanigan (born 1982), and Tristan Flanigan (born 1986). He was a devoted father and loved his children with all his heart and soul. 

 Professionally, Charles had a successful career with State Farm before joining Mutual of Omaha in 1986, where he worked diligently until his retirement in 2019 as a Senior Operations Analyst. His dedication and hard work were evident in every aspect of his career and personal life. 

 Charles had a passion for athletics, having run track for Tech High School and the 440 x 4 relay team in the 2nd Junior Olympics, setting a record time of 43.2 sec in his age group. His love for physical activity extended into his adult life, where he enjoyed biking, rollerblading, swimming, fishing and staying active. He also had a deep appreciation for the arts, collecting art, live music, reading, gardening, cooking and always spending time with his seven grandchildren. 

 Charles leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication. He leaves to remember his inspirations: his brother Benjamin Flanigan and his Wife Eunice Flanigan of Atlanta, His sister Ila Flanigan of Fresno; his three children, Celeste Flanigan of Carrollton, TX, Amir Flanigan of Omaha, NE, and Tristan Flanigan of Arlington, TX; his seven grandchildren, Kingston, Benjamin, Avi, Akai, Kasen, Ila, and Amaris; and countless individuals and acquaintances who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit will live on in the memories and hearts of those he touched, forever! 

 Preceding him in death were his loving parents Gloria Celeste Flanigan and Benjamin Franklin Flanigan, his two brothers Franklin Flanigan, and Daryl “Dino” Flanigan. 

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Flanigan Family, reflecting Charles’s lifelong commitment to helping others. Celeste, Amir, and Tristan would like to acknowledge with deep appreciation the comforting messages, floral tributes, and other expressions of sympathy received during our bereavement. God bless you for your kind thoughts and deeds.