NEW BERLIN – James “Bud” Lyon, 76, passed away Sunday, Sept. 27, 2009.
James David Davis was born to Anna Cathryn Davis, April 4, 1933 in Utica. Shortly thereafter he was adopted by Jay & Eva Lyon and became known as James Davis Lyon, also known as Bud Lyon. At the age of 8, Bud and his parents moved to 63 North Main Street in New Berlin. This is where he resided throughout his lifetime.
Bud graduated from New Berlin Central School in 1951 where he was active in all sports. He also sang in the school quintet that entertained both on radio and in school.
In September, 1951, he joined the Air Force and served four years during the Korean Conflict, stationed in Okinawa.
Upon arriving home, he eventually began working for A.C. Neely Fuel Company for 11 years. After obtaining his license to sell life insurance, he went to work for Metropolitan Life and remained there for 21 years. In April, 1989, he went to work for New York Central Mutual where he worked for 16 more years.
Bud was a member of the New Berlin Fire Department and also a dedicated member of Frank H. Arnold American Legion for over 50 years. In addition, Bud was active in New Berlin Little League coaching, he was the Youth Days parade announcer for nearly 35 years, and also participated on the board of Dollars For Scholars at New Berlin Central, currently UV Central School.
One of Bud’s favorite things was spending time in Beaver River and being a part of the New Berlin Sportsmen Club. Much fun was had hunting and camping with the guys in Beaver River for over the last 50 years.
Another favorite past time was racing, both dirt and NASCAR. He was a part of the pit crew for “Pop” Wilcox and always followed racing closely.
Bud most enjoyed playing cards with the guys down to the Legion, coffee breaks with Gordy and Jerry, and “board meetings” down to John’s Barber shop. But most known about Bud was the joy he got from his friends and acquaintances. Whether it be in school activities, at work, in the community, with his family, or just having visits along the streets of New Berlin.
Bud is cherished by his wife of 41 years, Mary (Houk) Lyon. He is also survived by his son and daughter in law, Jay & Amy Lyon, his daughter, Jannette Lyon and his two grandchildren, Clayton James and Derek Jake Lyon.
In addition, Bud is survived by many loving in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed.
Calling hours will be held 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the First United Methodist Church of New Berlin. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the First United Methodist Church. Interment with military honors will follow in the Fairview Cemetery in New Berlin.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Frank H. Arnold American Legion Post 348 of New Berlin, the New Berlin Volunteer Fire Department or the First United Methodist Church of New Berlin.
Arrangements are by the Dakin Funeral Home LP, New Berlin.