Obituary of William Daniel Flanagan Jr.

William Daniel Flanagan Jr 1950-2025

William Daniel Flanagan Jr of Indianapolis, IN, died at Hendricks Memorial Hospital in Danville, Indiana on September 30, 2025. 

Bill, as he was known to family and friends, was born in Lafayette, IN to Jennetta Jean (Massey) and William D. Flanagan Sr. The eldest sibling to many brothers and sisters, Bill took his responsibility to care for his family seriously no matter whose home he was staying in. While living with his beloved grandmother, Bill would collect bottles he found to get the money to pay for her insulin. That is the kind of man Bill was, generous with everything he had. Whether it be his time, acts of service, or his last dollar, he always helped anyone who was in need.

After high school, Bill enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. When asked why he chose the Marines, Bill said because they had the best looking uniforms. He served his country for 22 years, fought in Vietnam, prepared troops and supplies for the Gulf War, and was stationed at many bases as he traveled around the world including Puerto Rico, Denmark, and Japan. 

In 1971, by chance, Bill answered the phone at a friend's house and met the love of his life, Debbie. Normally shy, he boldly asked the young lady out on a blind date where it was love at first sight for him. On the third date he asked Debbie to marry him to which she replied "You're crazy, I don't even know you!" Bill smiled and said, "You will." They were married 10 months later. 

Together Bill and Debbie navigated the ups and downs of marriage and family for 53 years. They had two children, Travis and Sarah. Through the years Bill drove his kids to countless scout meetings, school concerts, marching band competitions and award ceremonies. He was always a proud dad of few words and many smiles. Bill became a grandpa to Lucas in 2004 and again to Olivia in 2012. 

In 1991, Bill retired from the Marine Corps and moved his little family to Indianapolis, IN. He worked for Permanent Magnet Co. until it closed its doors and then for Lowes until he officially retired. Even after Bill hung up his camouflage uniform, he never stopped being a Marine. Bill lived by the motto "Once a Marine, Always a Marine." For the last 50 years, whenever Bill was excited or happy he would belt out a hardy "Ooh-rah!" to which his wife and kids would yell "Ooh-rah!" back. If their reply was lacking volume or enthusiasm, he would say, "I better hear some sounds in here!" This was then met with louder "Ooh-rahs" from around the house followed by laughter. 

In his free time Bill enjoyed watching NASCAR and football, model trains, and listening to oldies oldies music. He loved to go camping and sitting around the campfire in the summer. He also liked to fish even though his wife would remark how he never left his line in the water long enough for the worm to get wet. 

Bill faced many challenges in his life, from war to two battles with prostate cancer. He didn't know the meaning of the word "quit" and never gave up all the way to the end. If you have ever played Monopoly with him, you know this. His perseverance in the face of adversity is just one of the many lessons he instilled in those who had the privilege to know him. He will be greatly missed by all. 

Bill is preceded in death by his mother Jean, father William, and brother Terry. He is survived by his wife, Debra (Hardwick) Flanagan, son William Travis Flanagan, daughter Sarah (Flanagan) Johnson, grandson Lucas Johnson, granddaughter Olivia Johnson, and his miniature poodle Boo.