James E. Lyons

James Edward Lyons, 89, of Aurora, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2013. He was born April 5, 1924 in Fairbury, Illinois but lived in Piper City, Illinois. He married Charleen (Char) Marcley on February 14, 1953 and they celebrated their 60th anniversary. After graduation from High School, Ed went to the University of Illinois and entered the V-12 navy program and graduated in three years with an Electrical Engineering degree. He then went to Midshipmen's school at Fort Skyler, New York where he received his commission and was sent to the Pacific on the USS Crittenden. After his discharge he went to work for Western United Gas and Electric Company that eventually after several mergers became Commonwealth Edison. Ed was a 50 year member of Masonic Lodge 254 and served twice as their Master. He was a Shriner and at one time owned and drove a miniature race car in parades. He is a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and the Golden K Kiwanis. After retirement he loved to play golf but did not keep score. He leaves behind his wife, Char, three sons, Gary (Cathy) of Idaho, Kent (Jane) of Washington and Brad (Amy) of Georgia, seven grandchildren, Rachel, Ethan, Zachery, Mitchell, Todd, Benjamin and Jamie, his sister, Marilyn Delap, his brother in law, Bob (Susan) Marcley as well as many nieces and nephews. He had his own Visiting Angel, Theresa Bates, who he thought the world of. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Jeremiah James Lyons and Hazel Davis Lyons. A memorial service will be held at 11 A.M. on Friday, January 3, 2014 at Wesley United Methodist Church, 14 N. May St., Aurora with visitation from 10 A.M. until the time of the service. Burial will be private. Memorials in his memory can be made to Wesley United Methodist Church or to the charity of your choice.