Patrick Phillip Lyons

1934 - 2015

Patrick “Pat” Lyons passed away unexpectedly on May 23, 2015 in La Quinta, California, leaving those who knew him heartbroken. In recent years, La Quinta was his home; however most of his life was spent in San Francisco and the Bay Area. He was born in San Francisco on December 27, 1934, and was 80 years old at the time of his death.

Pat was raised in the city by his paternal grandparents and his beloved Aunt Mary until 1947, when the family moved to Sonoma. After graduating from Sonoma High School in 1952, he returned to SF, beginning a lifelong love of the city and its inhabitants. Following graduation from San Francisco State University, Pat worked for American Ambulance and then for the SF Police Department’s Emergency Service as an EMT. He cherished those times and shared stories of his emergency service escapades throughout his life.

Pat spent most of his professional life in the insurance industry, running his own successful brokerage. It was the perfect fit for his gregarious nature, allowing him to socialize with friends, clients and colorful characters at the city’s most popular watering holes, such as Perry’s and “The Washbag.” Always outgoing, Pat charmed everyone with his wit, sense-of-humor and his hearty laugh.

Pat embodied the term “49er Faithful,” following his beloved team from the early days at Kezar Sta- dium, often while providing backup ambulance services, to his many decades as a season ticket holder at Candlestick Park where he saw “The Catch” and all the great players in 49er history. Pat was an excellent golfer, starting at Harding Park and ending as a longtime member of Marin Country Club; notable highlights include his hole-in-one on the third hole at the Olympic Club Lake Course and winning the MCC Invitational with his son-in-law, Greg.

Ever the proud Irishman, Pat loved everything about the Emerald Isle and considered St. Patrick’s Day to be his own personal celebration; may Irish blessings follow him through eternity. He is survived by his loving wife, Jayne; daughters Cynthia Rafeld and Susan Harrison; sons-in-law Michael and Gregory; grandchildren Brendan, Lindsay, Ryan, Anne, and Jake.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. If you knew Pat and would like to attend, please contact a friend or family member for details.