Byron Lacey

Byron Earl Lacey passed away on January 30, 2023, at the age of 82. As a long time Arizona resident, many knew Byron as a charismatic businessman whose 50 year career at Pete King Construction helped transform Phoenix into the fifth largest city in the US. But to those that knew him well, he was a devoted family man, a mentor, and an exceptional friend. Byron had a larger-than-life personality. He showed up for his family in every way a man could and loved to spend his free time hunting, fishing, skiing, boating, traveling, coaching his sons' youth sports teams, supporting the Arizona Cardinals, and sharing a good meal with family and friends. Anyone fortunate enough to share a table with Byron was instantly charmed by his incredible stories from a life well-lived.

Byron was born on December 4, 1940, in Denver, Colorado to Harold and Louise Lacey. He attended North High School in Denver where he excelled in football, wrestling and gymnastics. After graduating from high school in 1957, he attended the University of Colorado for a short time before transferring to Arizona State University where he graduated with a business degree in 1964.

Byron began working at Pete King Construction on March 8, 1960, at the age of 19. He had an incredibly successful career beginning as an estimator, later serving as President and ultimately becoming a co-owner of the company. Under his leadership, Pete King Construction became a leading metal framing, paint and drywall contractor in Phoenix. He was behind several high-profile projects including Bank One Ballpark (now Chase Field), America West Arena (now Footprint Center), and several terminals at Sky Harbor Airport as well as countless hospitals, office buildings, shopping centers and schools across the Valley. He loved his career, his colleagues, and the many contractors and suppliers that became close friends over the years.

He is survived by his adoring family including his wife of 48 years Margaret, his sons Scott, Michael (Stephanie) and David (Jessica), and his grandchildren Mitchell, Garrett, Emerson, Parker and Olivia. He is preceded in death by his mother Louise, his father Harold, and his daughter Nicole.

A memorial service will be held at Valley Presbyterian Church, 6947 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 1:30 PM. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Byron's name to Arizona Humane Society or St. Mary's Food Bank.