After working in the Administrative office at the University of California at Riverside, Lynn Clinton-Van Patter moved to Phoenix and went to work for Arizona State University . She worked in various administrative jobs during her 25-year tenure at ASU before retiring in 2020.

During her years in Phoenix, Lynn was active in various civic organizations including Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Arizona State Archery Association and, later, Gold Star Mothers West Phoenix Chapter. She and her daughter, Brandie, raised more than seven guide dog puppies during her time with the Guide Dogs organization. She was instrumental in establishing the Desert Sky Archery Association under the Arizona State Archery Association. Lynn was invited to join the Gold Star Mothers after the death in 2011 of her daughter, Brandie, a Naval Petty Officer Third Class. The camaraderie of the women in this group brought Lynn great comfort and pleasure in years following Brandie's death.

In addition to her daughter, Brandie, Lynn is pre-deceased by her parents and a nephew.

She is survived by her husband, Mike, two daughters, as well as a son. In addition, she is survived by two grandsons, three sisters, two brothers-in-law, as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Lynn was held on April 18, 2026. In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to support The Department of Arizona's American Gold Star Mothers.