Lynn Brinkman's Obituary
Gordon Lynn Brinkman, 85, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025, in Decatur, IL. He was born in Decatur, IL, on February 2, 1940, to the late Elmo F. Brinkman and Violet R. Gebhart Brinkman. Lynn was a successful businessman and ended his career serving as a CFO at a bank. His attention to detail was legendary. This was evident in his volunteer tax preparation, as a board member for Heritage Behavioral Health Center, and in helping friends with their financial investments.
He gladly donated his time and expertise over the years to those who needed a helping hand in organizing their finances for a better future. His servant’s heart also led him to volunteer at the Good Samaritan Inn, help with Project Read, deliver mail at St. Mary’s Hospital, and offer his time to students at South Shores Elementary who needed a little extra help with their schoolwork. He made donations to numerous charities and continued this giving habit up until his passing. Lynn was devoted to his Catholic faith. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church and an alumnus of St. Teresa. He attended Mass regularly and often served as Altar boy or as an usher. He devoted time weekly in Eucharistic Adoration at the hospital. He also took great comfort in praying the rosary. He lived his faith through his love for his family and kindness toward others. When he took time for himself Lynn enjoyed racquetball, golfing, soaking up the sun, and doing yard work. He loved watching and going to University of Illinois, St. Teresa, and Chicago Bears football and/or basketball games. He was also an avid collector of miniature trains and bult model train sets in his home.
Even in tougher times, he had the ability to smile, make others laugh, and offer help. He always appreciated when someone brought him his favorite, Panera’s coffee. It was these little acts of kindness that made his day.
He's lovingly remembered by his daughters, Jennifer León and Tracy (Matt) Singer; brother, Mark Brinkman and his brother Ron Brinkman, who has gone before him; his stepbrother, Thomas Treacy; sisters, Diane Fairbanks, Julie Clark, and Casey Langdon; stepsister, Lisa Treacy; grandchildren, Tyler Singer and Emmitt Singer. His memory is also held by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends including his former wife Mary Jo, staff and residents at Imboden Gardens, and by his beloved dog Abby, now reunited with him.
Funeral Mass for Lynn Brinkman will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church. Visitation will precede the service by one hour. Lynn will be laid to rest in Fairlawn Cemetery following Mass.
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