St. Patrick’s Day Parade Dignitaries
Mr. Pat 2026:
Tim Flynn
Mr. Pat is the king figure of the St. Patrick’s Day parade and counterpart to Miss Shamrock. He embodies the spirit of Saint Patrick's Day and St. Paul’s Irish community. Each year, Mr. Pat alumni choose a gentleman prominent in the St. Paul community to adorn the signature green jacket and represent the Association.
About Mr. Pat
For nearly three decades, Tim Flynn and his music have been stirring the spirit of Saint Paul pubs, festivals, parades, and anywhere the city’s Irish heart shines through. Trained by the legendary Pat Gallivan, Tim has proudly continued the tradition of the nursing home tour—bringing music, joy, and a bit of Irish cheer to those who need it most
As the front man of Paddy Wagon—one of Minnesota’s most beloved Irish bands—he has brought joy and laughter wherever a stage is set. He has become instrumental in keeping Saint Paul’s proud Irish identity alive.
When he’s not onstage belting out “Fisherman’s Blues” to a packed 400+ person tent at Shamrock’s annual Saint Pat’s party, his audience is the customers of Thomson Reuters, where he works helping them navigate financial software with the same enthusiasm and dedication he brings to the stage. Tim and his wife Jamie are the proud parents of three, two of whom are proudly following his path at St. John’s University and the College of Saint Benedict—keeping the family’s connection to tradition, education, and community going strong.
Deeply rooted in his Irish heritage, Tim made his second journey to Ireland last summer. If it hadn’t been for his wife and his big circle of Irish family and friends back home, he might still be there! He even saw a brief stint of fame while back in the homeland, performing on RTÉ and in Galway’s iconic Eyre Square, earning him friendly recognition from countless locals for the rest of the trip. The overdue journey only strengthened his love for the culture, music, and community that shape so much of the man he is.
Whether performing, working, or cheering on the next generation, Tim embodies the spirit of Saint Patrick’s Day year-round—warm, welcoming, full of fun, and proud of his roots.
2026 Grand Marshal:
TBA
The Grand Marshal is a notable member of the St. Paul community who is honored by leading the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
2026 Distinguished Irish Woman:
Shannon Masera
Director of Partnerships & Engagement, O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co.
Each year, the honor of Distinguished Irish Woman and the St. Brigid Award is given to a hardworking Irish woman who has done outstanding work in her field and the community.
About Shannon Masera
Shannon Masera serves as the Director of Partnerships & Engagement at O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co., where she has been a founding leader since the distillery’s launch in 2021. She played an integral role in bringing the vision of Keeper’s Heart Whiskey to life. An inspired blend of Irish and American traditions has helped position the Minneapolis distillery as both an award-winning destination and a vibrant community gathering place. Through strategic partnerships, innovative marketing, and authentic relationship-building, Shannon continues to elevate the brand while creating meaningful connections across the Twin Cities and beyond.
Proud of her Irish heritage, Shannon is a passionate advocate for cultural preservation and community engagement. She actively supports events and organizations that celebrate the Irish-American experience, serving as a bridge between the O’Shaughnessy family’s legacy and the historic Irish community of St. Paul. Her leadership is driven by strategic vision and a talent for connecting people with purpose, ensuring that each initiative strengthens both brand impact and community ties.
Shannon’s dedication to excellence, community, and cultural celebration embodies the heart of the Distinguished Irish Woman honor. Married to her high school sweetheart, Carey, she is also the proud mother of Hayden and Rory. Whether championing partnerships, uplifting her community, or shaping experiences that resonate, Shannon leads with warmth, integrity, and purpose.
2026 Honorary Irish Person:
Bill Kozlak
Owner, Jax Cafe
St. Patrick’s Day may be an Irish holiday, but it's a day for everyone to enjoy. Each year the Association names a non-Irish member of the community as its Honorary Irish Person. While this person is not necessarily Irish, he or she embodies the spirit and character of the Irish and the holiday.
About Bill Kozlak
Bill is the third-generation owner/operator of Jax Cafe in NE Minneapolis. He worked alongside his parents Bill and Kathy Kozlak from 1992 until 2000 when he purchased the business and still run day to day operations.
Bill grew up in Golden Valley, MN with four older sisters and one younger brother. He attended Saint Thomas Academy in Mendota Heights for High School where he was first introduced to the St. Patrick’s Day parade and festivities. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from St. John’s University in Collegeville Minnesota.
Bill has three adult children: Bella (26), Billy (23) and Ave (19) and resides in Hopkins.
His Grandfather (Dan Greeley) on his mother’s side was a full blood Irish Police Officer.
Bill is involved or holds board positions with multiple non-profit organization, including:
Northeast Lions
Goldbricks Club
Eastside Neighborhood Services
Hospitality MN (Minnesota Restaurant Association)
Twin Cities Originals
Minnesota 100 club
Saint Thomas Academy Alumni Association
Interlachen Country Club