Lyle Keith Mason

Mason, Lyle K., passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2019 in Palm Desert, California at the age of 89. Lyle is preceded in death by his wife Linda, his sister Elaine Westphal, and his brother Robert Mason. He is survived by his daughter Keli Mohr (Oregon), his son Mark Mason (Washington), and his brother Ken Mason (Iowa). He is also survived by three step-children and several grandchildren and step-grandchildren.

Lyle was born on May 10, 1930 in Anamosa, Iowa to Rubert B. Mason and Hazel I. (Williams). He lived in Olin, Iowa and graduated from Olin High School. He attended Cornell College at Mt. Vernon and Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Drake University in 1951.

Lyle was inducted into the U.S. Army in September of 1951. He was transferred to Army Reserve 5 in June of 1953. He served in the Korean War as a Corporal, 3rd Infantry Division. He was honorably discharged in October, 1959.

Lyle was a music teacher and taught in both Gilman and Madrid, Iowa for several years. He later moved to California and graduated from the University of Southern California in 1968 with a Master of Science degree in Education. Lyle also obtained a lifetime teaching credential in 1966, Master Teacher recognition from Cal State Long Beach in 1973, and many other teaching credentials including Music and English as a Second Language. Lyle loved teaching and worked for the Los Angeles School District until retirement in 1991.

Lyle’s real passion was music. He played many instruments, but was especially dedicated to his trombone. He loved jazz music and played with numerous show and pit bands including the Jimmy Palmer Road Band, the Palos Verdes Symphony, the Hollywood Bowl Symphony, and also at Disneyland. Lyle (even up to his passing) belonged to a group called “The Five Fossils.” He enjoyed practicing at his house in Palm Desert with his bandmates and donating his gift of music to others.

Lyle just liked having fun. He enjoyed his friends, singing, golf, motorcycling, traveling, and the Spanish language and culture. His final wishes were to be scattered at sea in Los Angeles (San Pedro).

The family suggests sending memorial donations to any elder abuse, dementia, or music organization of your choice.