Chester William Lyons

Chester William Lyons, also known as Chet Lyons to many, passed away peacefully August 1st, 2023. Born May 12, 1939, in San Francisco, CA to Louise (Jarzina) Lyons and Chester Lyons. Chet was a brother to Dennis and Bob, both of whom had previously departed. After high school, Chester married the love of his life, Lela V. (Lele) Whitley. They raised three children: Michael (Mike) born 1957, Lisa (Dodie) (deceased), born1960, and Richard (Rich) born 1962.

Chet and Lele moved from South San Francisco to Fremont, CA in 1970. Chet started his career as a Union Painter in 1956 and apprenticed in San Francisco. Chet worked as a Tract housing painter through the sixties and into the seventies as a foreman. After obtaining his Painting Contractor License in 1973, Chet Lyons Painting was founded. Chet worked seven days a week growing a small business doing mostly commercial projects (Retail, office, new construction). Chet Lyons Painting prospered until Chet retired upon Lela's death in June of 2006. Dad was loved by all. The homeowners and contractors he worked with were customers for life. His work ethic and commitment to his customers was always a top priority.

Chet moved to Vallejo, CA in 2010 to be near his son Rich, and his wife Julie. As declining health became more of an issue, son Mike and his wife Lisa asked Dad to move into their home in 2015. After his 80th birthday party, Dad, never a burden to anyone, said he was ready for Senior Living. Moving to a retirement community in Vallejo in 2019, Dad found companionship and made many friends at his new place of residence.

When son Mike retired in 2022 and relocated to southern California to be near his children, Dad followed to Brookdale, San Marcos, retirement community to be near his beloved Grandchildren Taylor McKenzie (husband Kenny) and Drake Lyons (wife Amber). Chet always put family first in his life.

Dad loved his dogs! Dad and Mom loved Poodles of all sizes. They included Pepi, Toto, Pippa, Cricket, Coquette, Oscar, Oliver, Romeo, Juliette, Casey, Megan, Andy and Teddy.

When Dad wasn't working, he loved working around the house and yard. Dad and Mom were always redecorating. Dad meticulously repainted every inch of any house he owned. Our bedrooms were the custom colors that us kids selected.

A huge and loyal fan of the SF Giants and Forty Niners, Dad rarely missed listening to a game. Dad listened only to KNBR on the radio.

Dad provided Mom, Mike, Dodie, and me with everything we needed. Dad and Mom were great providers and were always there to help us with anything needed.

Dad Always had a positive attitude and a Can-Do approach to any obstacle. We were always in Awe of his fearless determination and amazed with his accomplishments.

Dad was also able to instill a strong work ethic into his children; Dad always led by example.

Survived by great grandchildren Jade, Landon, Jett, Abrielle, and Everly who was born in late July to Drake (grandson) and Amber (granddaughter-in-law).

Chet will be missed by family and friends including cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

We ask that in lieu of flowers, that you donate to your local SPCA or animal shelter of choice.

Chet's wonderful legacy and memory will live on in all the lives he has touched.