John Francis Byrne

Byrne

John Francis Byrne

John Francis Byrne, who left us on August 31, 2023, at the age of 82, was a man of service, intellect, and a heartwarming sense of humor. A Vietnam veteran, he held multiple degrees and built a notable career in the National Park Service, working on the Clean Air Act and leaving a lasting impact on iconic parks including Yosemite, the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and the Appalachian Trail.

After retirement, John was a global consultant on environmental conservation, a volunteer committee chair for the Sierra Club, and a professor at George Mason University. His work not only preserved natural beauty for future generations but also educated countless visitors on the importance of conservation. He never wavered in his commitment to bettering the world.

John's penchant for light-hearted jokes endeared him to all. He found solace in nature through horseback riding and daily walks with his beloved wife. Alongside his love for the outdoors, John had a profound affection for knowledge. The library was his sanctuary, where he nourished his insatiable intellectual curiosity.

John is survived by his loving wife Linda, children, Liz and Jack, three sisters, and three brothers (one deceased). He will be remembered as a pillar of his community, a guardian of America's landscapes, his warm spirit, and the joy he brought into the lives of others. He will be profoundly missed.

A celebration of life will take place at a future date. In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to the National Park Foundation which will support the pristine environments he held dear.