John “Jack” P. Lyon | Obituary

John P. “Jack” Lyon, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and accomplished engineer, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, in Lynnwood, Washington. He was born on December 31, 1932, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Jack lived a remarkable life filled with love for his family, dedication to his career, and a passion for music and community.

Jack graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1955 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. A few months later, he moved with his wife and young son to Spokane, Washington, to begin his engineering career at Kaiser Aluminum – Trentwood.

In 1971, Jack embarked on a new chapter when he purchased Materials Reclamation Co. (Maralco) in Seattle. Under his leadership, the company later relocated to Kent, Washington. During his time with Maralco, Jack made significant contributions to the industry by developing and patenting the Salt Saver, a process used in melting aluminum.

Throughout his life, Jack was always singing—in church choirs, barbershop quartets, and choruses—sometimes also taking the baton as director. Wherever he was, you would find him in leadership positions, willing to share his time and talent with others. Jack’s life was enriched by his deep love for music and active participation in the barbershop singing association SPEBSQSA.

He achieved worldwide recognition as the baritone of the Most Happy Fellows quartet when they became International Champions in 1977—a highlight of his musical journey. Jack had a deep impact on others, including his quartet-mates and those he coached musically. For decades, he shared his talents. Jack’s heart guided his skill for musical interpretation, and many will never forget his guidance, encouragement, and advice.

His lifelong passion for singing was shared in his faith community as well. Jack was an active choir member, including at Grace Lutheran Church in Des Moines, Washington, where he was a member for over five decades. He also sang at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Federal Way and watched Westwood Christian Community services, mostly online, ever since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beyond music and faith, Jack found joy on the golf course and bowling lanes. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed playing at Twin Lakes Golf & Country Club in Federal Way and Rainier Golf & Country Club in Burien. Bowling at Secoma Lanes in Federal Way was another pastime that brought him happiness over the years—well into his 90s.

Jack is survived by Gloria, his beloved wife of 73 years; their children: John P. Lyon Jr. (Kim) of Westlake Village, California; Patty (Larry) Hassler of West Seattle, Washington; and Betty (Wayne) Evensen of Mountlake Terrace, Washington. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, with another great-grandchild expected soon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herb and Johanna Lyon; his siblings, Herb (Betty) Lyon, Dot (Ray) Jacobs, and Dick (Claudine) Lyon.

Jack’s legacy is one of love for family and friends, dedication to his work and passions, and an enduring commitment to community through music and faith. His lifework will be remembered and appreciated by all who knew him. May Jack’s life serve as an inspiration to those who carry forward his spirit of integrity and joy.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice.

Jack’s Celebration of Life will be held on June 19, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Westwood Christian Community, 9252–16th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98106-2807. If you are unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed at wccseattle.org and on Facebook under “Westwood Christian Community.”

We already miss him, but have been assured that death is a doorway, not a destination, so we will see Jack again.