Donald "Don" Woodrow Lyon Jr.

Don was born on July 23, 1942 at Stockton Air Force Base. His family later moved to Toledo, Ohio, where he graduated from Maumee Country Day School and went on to earn his degree from the University of Toledo.

In 1969, Don was hired under J. Edgar Hoover to serve as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), dedicating 23 years to the agency in various roles and management capacities. His exemplary service was recognized with the prestigious FBI Medal of Valor for his heroism during a 1976 aircraft hostage crisis, where he successfully negotiated a resolution at great personal risk. He retired as Supervisory Special Agent for the State of Montana.

After retiring from the FBI, Don became the first Director of Security for the Colorado Rockies baseball club in 1992. He played a pivotal role in establishing and overseeing the team’s safety and security operations, ensuring the smooth management of Coors Field and coordinating major events such as the Rockies’ inaugural postseason appearances, the World Series, and Colorado’s first All-Star Game. He served in this role until his retirement in 2013.

Beyond his work with the Rockies, Don held leadership positions as Director and Vice President at Nationsway Transport, JH Marsh & McLennan, and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., where he provided expertise in safety, security, and risk management. His passion for the field led him to establish his own consulting company.

In full retirement, Don and his wife, Susan, devoted their time to volunteering with McBackpack, a Larimer County food bank initiative. He enjoyed traveling, playing golf with friends, and spending cherished moments with his children and grandchildren. Don also embraced his passion for fly fishing, dedicating himself to both the sport and the art of tying flies.

Don will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to public service, his strong leadership, and his loving and generous nature.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Susan (née Fuller); his sons, Todd (and wife Natalee) of Denver, Colorado, and Matthew (and wife Miho) of Kent, Washington; his sister, Janet, of Toledo, Ohio; and his two cherished grandchildren, Mia and Kayla and special relatives, the “O’s and P’s”.

Per his request, services will be limited to his family. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to McBackpack, a Larimer County Food Bank program for children in need.