Richard “Dick” F. Lyons, age 90, passed away on Thursday, September 22, 2022, at The Villa at Middleton Village with his family by his side. He was born on July 30, 1932, to Francis and Lillian (Genin) Lyons in Madison, WI. Dick married Linda Niebuhr on March 4, 1978, at St. Dennis Catholic Church in Madison, WI.

Dick graduated Edgewood High School, and soon after, started his 57-year career at Carnes Company in Verona as a draftsman. Dick and Linda lived not far from Carnes, which allowed him to walk to work nearly every day. He was often seen walking or riding his bike around town, which he preferred to driving when possible.

Dick was a family man, through and through, whether it was caring for his parents prior to their passing, helping one of his siblings, loving his wife, or playing with his two kids. As a family, they enjoyed road trips, camping, and exploring new places. A goal of his was to visit all 48 continental United States, which he achieved several years ago.

Dick loved older model cars—particularly Corvairs and Studebakers—and on occasion, even raced Corvairs. He belonged to the Capital City Corvair Club and enjoyed traveling and meeting up with other club members for various outings. He also owned a Corvair van, which quickly earned the nickname, “Shark Van,” around town because of its unique, custom design, which, like many things, was a product of his creativity and whatever materials he had on hand.

Other hobbies Dick enjoyed were gardening, tinkering in his woodworking shop, bowling, golfing, and playing cards—specifically, Sheepshead, Euchre, and Crazy 8s. He also greatly enjoyed taking photos everywhere he went and all things Irish, including Irish music, which became a source of comfort in his later years.

Always carrying a rosary, Dick was dedicated to his faith and was a founding member and historian for the Knights of Columbus council at St. Andrew’s church in Verona. He enjoyed spending his time with fellow Knights and helping around church whenever needed.

Dick is survived by his wife; two children, Dawn (Nick) Burke, Shawn Lyons; grandchildren, Cashton, Elliana, Calvin Burke; brothers, Pat (Carole) Lyons, Don (Mary) Lyons; sisters, Virginia Schmale, Francita Schaller, and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lillian Miller; brothers-in-law, Dick Schmale, Bob Schaller, and Jerry Miller.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 29, 2022, at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 301 N. Main Street, Verona, WI. Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 28, 2022, at Ryan Funeral Home, 220 Enterprise Drive, Verona and again from 10:00 AM until the time of service at church. Interment will be held at Resurrection Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Middleton Villa and Agrace Hospice for the attentive care they provided in the years leading up to Dick’s death. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services Verona Chapel 220 Enterprise Drive 608-845-6625

I worked at The Carnes Company in the late 1990's. Dick and I used to talk about old cars all the time. Him-Corvairs, Me-Volkswagens. And yes, he loved to play cards every day at lunchtime.

Dick was the keeper of the Sheepshead book at Carnes. Anyone who ever played at noon with the crew was in the book complete with winning and losses. He was a very special man and I enjoyed working with him.

Linda, My condolences to you and your family on the loss of Dick. It has been many years since we have seen you, when we were a part of the Corvair Club. Dan and I always enjoyed our time with you. Also I happened to be with a friend today that also knows you and Dick. That is Lois Prochnow. Dick used to work at Carnes with her husband Ken. She also sends her condolences. Our best to you, Judy Killian

On behalf of all Dick's brother Knights of Knights Of Columbus Monsignor Delbert Schmelzer Council 11145 in Verona, our condolences and appreciation for his life.

Linda, my deepest sympathy. So sorry to read of Dick's passing.

I was in the Madison Dominic Club back in the 1960's. I met my husband Joe Malik (He passed away in 2015) through the club. We both knew Dick and had some fun times with him at Dominic Club events. Sorry to hear of Dick's death.

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Tiffany Foster went out of her way to fulfill all my requests, talked me through problems I was facing, and tried to make me feel as comfortable as possible when I was a wreck, totally crushed, and I thank her with all of my heart for that.

The professional manner of the staff made a difficult time a little easier.

Services provided for both parents were perfect, on time, and no issues. Brenda is awesome and strong!

Skyler was absolutely amazing. She was so caring and helpful through this whole process. She even went above and beyond to meet with us in DeForest and even to make a stop at our home to drop off or pick up anything needed. While it was a small gesture, it was so helpful and greatly appreciated.

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