Donald Francis Lyon

Donald Francis Lyon, 84, passed away on Friday evening, March 4, 2011, with his family by his side. Visitation will be held Thursday morning, March 10, 2011, from 9:00 to 10:00, at Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, Kansas, with a funeral mass at 10:00. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Don was born on December 4, 1926, the middle son of Harry E. and Justina M. Lyon. He attended Blessed Sacrament school, Ward High, and Benedictine College. Don served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1945-1951. Don married his high school sweetheart, Florence (Sue) Golden, on May 13, 1950, and began their family soon afterward. Don and Sue traveled to many places, including Ireland and Europe. Don admired St. Patrick and “kept the faith” every March 17th. He also looked forward each June to the annual fishing trip to Canada with his buddies. Don made his career in the food business, beginning in sales at Flemming Foods during the 1950s. He later retired after many years as National Sales Manager for Reames Frozen Foods and was instrumental in building Reames into the multi-million dollar corporation it is today.

Don was a member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church for over 40 years and was active in parish life. He had been a member of Church of the Nativity since 2002. Don was very proud of his Catholic faith. He made many sacrifices to educate his sons at Queen, and at Rockhurst High School. He was a great supporter of the Salvation Army and the Humane Society. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to either of these charities.

Don was preceded in death by an infant son, Donald Francis, Jr.; his father, Harry Edwin; and his mother, Justina Marie. He is survived by his wife Sue; brothers Harry E. Lyon and James L. Lyon; a cousin, Dorothy Rose Hatcher and her husband Gene; sons, Dr. Michael G. Lyon and wife Dr. Nancy Oliva, Dr. Timothy J. Lyon and wife Brenda, and Kevin F. Lyon and wife Patricia. He also leaves behind four grandsons.

Don would most like to be remembered for his humility, his marriage of 61 years, and for the accomplishments of his three sons. He was extremely proud of inspiring each to give back to mankind through their chosen professions.

The family would like to extend its heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Timothy Blackburn and the staff on 4 East at St. Joseph’s Medical Center for making every effort to save Don’s life, and for their comfort and compassion to him in his final days. “He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.”