Founder of sporting goods company, car enthusiast, folk singer
Thomas Lynch. (Courtesy photo)
Thomas “Tom” Lynch of Naples, Florida, formerly of Harvard, died Sept. 7, 2022, after a brief illness.
Tom was born to William and Rose Brack Lynch in Fitchburg on April 16, 1942. He attended St. Bernard’s High School and subsequently Boston College, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree. While in Boston, Tom was a member of a folk group called the Windagoes, with local success that included an album release.
Tom built a successful career in management and sales, eventually settling in Harvard with his wife, Margaret “Peg” Holmes Lynch, their four children, and retiring at 48 years old. While still working Tom created many special memories for Peg and the children by commuting to their Little Sebago Lake summer camp in Maine, where they enjoyed family and friends. During this time Tom also served as president of the United Cerebral Palsy Organization in Massachusetts for several years, which was a cause very close to his heart.
In retirement Tom started an outdoor sporting goods company and built hot rods to not only enjoy but show. Upon moving to Naples, Florida, he became the president of the Cool Cruisers of Southwest Florida and enjoyed connecting with other car enthusiasts.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Peg Lynch, his parents, and a brother, Jack. He is survived by his wife, Diana Lynch, and his sister, Margaret. Also surviving him are his children: William F. Lynch (Suzanne) of Gardner; Thomas F. Lynch (Beth) of Sanbornton, New Hamphire; Robert J. Lynch of Leominster; and Cheryl Lynch Benvenuti (Phil) of Auburn. He leaves nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Tom at a memorial Mass on Saturday, Oct. 22, at 11 a.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 15 Still River Road, Harvard. Burial will follow at Bellevue Cemetery in Harvard.
Donations in his memory may be made to Avow Hospice, 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples, Florida 34105.
Arrangements are under the care of Badger Funeral Home in Littleton, www.badgerfuneral.com.
