Thomas J. Lyon, age 77, passed away on October 7, 2026, at Prairie Homes Assisted Living, with family at his side. He was born on June 26, 1949, to the late Lincoln and Beverly (Robinson) Lyon, in Wausau. The family moved to Appleton prior to the birth of Tom’s younger brother. He graduated from Xavier High School and went to Fox Valley Tech where he earned an AA in Mechanical Engineering.

Tom loved planes and everything about them. He worked to earn his private pilot license. It was while he was training and working on his hours, that he met Linda Miller at a friend’s wedding in IL. Soon after that fortuitous meeting, he made several trips “picking up his lady in a plane” for dates. Of course, they also made driving trips to spend time together. It’s a wonder they even got a first date, Tom was shy, but somehow, they made a connection and it became love. They married on May 14, 1977, and built a life and home together.

Tom loved any Wisconsin sports. Passionate about both the Brewers and the Packers, he would watch other events but was always faithful to those teams even when they weren’t doing their best.

Tom’s family was his other true passion. They were his heartbeat. He loved to tour the valley and look at holiday lights with everyone in the car. He enjoyed spending time with them no matter the time or season, though Christmas was a favorite. Tom also made it a point to ground himself in his faith.

Tom is survived by his children: Stephanie (Kris) Krause, Tim (Shannon) Lyon, grandchildren: Joseph, Elijah; step granddaughter Kassi (Kelsey) Gilmore and their son Boone. He is further survived by his sister Peggy (Chuck) Reetz, sister-in-law Karen Lyon as well as nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.He was preceded in death by his wife Linda, his parents, and his brother Jeffrey.

A memorial service for Tom will take place at 2pm on Monday October 19, 2026, at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N Superior Street, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 1:00pm until the service begins. Tom and Linda will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park, Appleton.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St Joseph Catholic Church Pantry and homeless care.