Published in the July 3, 2015 edition
MELROSE — Arthur W. Lyon, 95, of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 28, at Wingate at Reading.
Arthur was born in Worcester on Jan. 25, 1920, a son of the late Walter M. and Edith M. (Skillin) Lyon. Raised in Boston, he graduated from the Boston Trade School where he learned the carpenter trade.
Following his graduation, he served in the United States Navy during World War II in the 50th Construction Battalion. For his dedicated service, he received a Bronze Star and was discharged honorably on Nov. 26, 1945.
Arthur and his wife Margaret were married on Aug. 31, 1941 and they settled in Melrose to raise three children.
Arthur worked for Harvard University as a carpenter for over 40 years. A loyal employee he took pride in his handiwork and craftsmanship. Working on numerous construction projects, renovations and repairs, Arthur was skilled in a wide array of jobs related to Harvard’s buildings and grounds. He found particular joy in projects such as constructing the awards’ platform for track and field events, renovating the library and building lockers for student-athletes.
In his free time, he perfected his woodworking skills at home in his wood shop where he made furniture and doll houses for his granddaughters. Although not a big traveler, he preferred summer camping trips with his family throughout New England. He had many great memories in the pop out trailer camping in the White and Green mountains and on Cape Cod. In his free time, Arthur was a voracious reader, loved listening to all type of music and delighted in a good game of cribbage with his family. Arthur was also a longtime member of the Wyoming Lodge, AF&AM in Melrose.
Arthur was a sociable, friendly person who enjoyed getting to know people with his quick sense of humor and a wink. In his later years, he enjoyed walks around the neighborhood making friends with the police or firemen and always had a kind word for a lady.
His family will cherish their many memories of Arthur and his spirit will live on in their hearts.
Arthur was the beloved husband of the late Margaret M. (Maguire) Lyon with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Lynette S. Gray and her husband Chip of Danvers, Kenneth A. Lyon and his wife Pokhui of Reading and Lucinda M. Campbell and her husband John of Melrose. He was the dear brother of the late Alfred Lyon and Frederick Lyon. He was the cherished grandfather of David Gray and his wife Shelby of New Hampshire, Stephen Gray and his wife Ariel of California, Lee Marion Lyon and her husband Gregory Kuter of New Jersey, Paul Lyon of Reading, Michelle Farrell and her husband Seth of Lynn, Kaitlin Camire and her husband Jared of Melrose and Patrick Campbell of Melrose. He was the loving great-grandfather of Kyleigh Gray, Ella Gray, Jude Camire, Owen Camire, Zachary Gray and Avery Gray.
Family will gather in honor of Arthur’s life for a private graveside service. Interment with U.S. Navy honors at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody.
Gifts in honor of Arthur may be made to VNA of Middlesex-East, Development Office, 607 North Ave., Suite 17, Wakefield MA 01880.
For condolences or online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
