Lydia A. Bacon

Lydia Ann Bacon, on January 19, 2013, went to share a new, everlasting life with her beloved husband, Ralph “Butch”, who predeceased her on January 14, 1993. A proud daughter of Italian immigrants, Lydia was born in Benald, Illinois. Upon her marriage to Ralph, they moved to Michigan where they would raise their family and make lifelong friends. Cherishing Lydia’s memory are daughters Nancy in Grand Rapids, Mary Williams in Kalamazoo and son Robert (Twila) in San Jose, CA; beloved grandsons Jack (Armine) in Redondo Beach, CA and Tucker in San Jose, CA and her great-granddaughter Ella; and nieces and nephews. Also, sharing her joys through the years are extended family and lifelong friends Helen and Kaye Skougis.

Lydia was very active in her community. She taught Sunday School and served on the consistory at St. John’s United Church of Christ. She retired from Grand Rapids Public Schools but returned as a classroom volunteer. During her own children’s school career, she held offices in the PTA. She would contribute generously to any cause which impacted children’s lives. Being very civic minded and politically engaged, Lydia frequently contributed to the Grand Rapids Press's Letters to the Editor or Public Pulse columns. She also served as a long distance contributing editor to her home town newspaper the Carlinville Gazette. In her spare time she wrote poetry; her life’s dream was to author children’s books. Above all, her greatest joy came from being a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the many staff members at Pilgrim Manor who cared for her as a family member throughout the years.

A private service has taken place followed by interment at Graceland Memorial Park. Contributions to the America Diabetes Association or Alzheimer’s Association in Lydia’s memory would be greatly appreciated by her family.

“When tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart. For every time you think of me, I’m right here in your heart.”