Bernard Flaherty

Born on September 25, 1952

Departed on May 12, 2014 and resided in Aurora, CO

Bernard "Big Mike" Flaherty, 61, Aurora, CO died May 12th, 2014.
He was born in Abilene, KS on September 25th, 1952 to the late Bernard and Marnett Gilbert Flaherty.
After graduating high school in Olathe, KS Mike went on to join the United States Air Force. He served during the Vietnam era and among other posts in the U.S. he spent some time stationed in Guam. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1974.
Mike loved fishing and building model cars. He also collected Match Box and Hot Wheels cars.
He spent his young adult life in the Kansas City, KS area but he was a free spirit who went on many adventures. He hitchhiked across the country, explored the northwest and traveled the historic Route 66 Highway several times.
"Big Mike" spent 25 years of his life at the Lake of the Ozarks, MO. He worked as a maintenance technician and groundskeeper at the Lodge of the Four Seasons golf course for 17 years.
In the short time he was in Aurora his adventures consisted of a trip to Denver Zoo, Lookout Mountain, Red Rocks and a car show. He spent quality time with his daughters, son-in-law and grandchildren.
Survivors include his daughters Wendi Welch and her fiance Daniel Calder, Elizabeth, NJ; Crystal Field, her husband Dave and their children Kelsie Flaherty and Cody Field, Aurora, CO; siblings Glenett and Cliff Marks, Mission, KS; Linell and Ron Fuller, Osawatomie, KS; Orletta Carnes, Mexico, MO; Larry Flaherty, Eudora, KS; Terry and Paula Flaherty, Gardner, KS; many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held at Fort Logan National Cemetery. Wednesday May 21, 2014 at 12:15PM. In lieu of flowers please donate to any charity that benefits our country's veterans.