Obituary of Franklin D. Lyons

Franklin D. Lyons, 73, of Hagaman, formerly of North Troy, passed away at St Mary?s Hospital in Amsterdam, on Friday evening, April 13, 2007, after a long illness. Born November 10, 1933 in Troy, New York. He was the son of the late Albert and Catherine O?Shaunessy Lyons. He moved to Hagaman ten years ago. Franklin was a veteran and was proud to serve in the United States Army, during the Korean War, where he received a Service Medal. After serving his term, Franklin went back and graduated from both Troy High School and Hudson Valley Community College. Franklin worked as a Quality Control Inspector, for over 30 years, for Garden Way, Inc. He also worked for over 15 years at the Troy Savings Bank. He believed in giving back to the community and was involved with the Junior Achievement Program for many years. Franklin was a regular blood donor for the Red Cross and received many commendations from them. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed many trips to Wildwood Crest, New Jersey. He also enjoyed traveling to Disney World and riding the attractions with his grandsons. Franklin loved bowling and was in many bowling leagues in Troy. He was a wonderful and giving person who will be extremely missed by all who knew him. Loving husband and father, Franklin leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Shirley Lyons of Hagaman, his daughter, Donna Lyons-Reichel and his son-in-law Thomas Reichel of Hagaman. Two grandsons, whom he adored, Christopher and Matthew Reichel, also of Hagaman. He leaves behind a sister Rita Festa of Mechanicville. Brothers John and Nicholas of Troy. He was predeceased by the late William Lyons, Teresa Lyons Gregory and Albert Lyons, all of Troy. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Thursday morning, April 19, 2007 at 10 am at the Betz, Rossi Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, New York, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:15 am at St Mary?s Roman Catholic Church, East Main Street, Amsterdam. Burial will take place at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Saratoga, New York with full military honors. Calling hours will be held Wednesday, April 18, 2007 from 4-7 pm at the funeral home. A celebration of life ceremony will be held that evening at 5pm. Memorial contributions may be made in Franklin?s memory to St Mary?s Church, 156 E Main Street, Amsterdam, New York 12010.