Philip Lyon

Philip A. Lyon, age 72, of Cottage Grove, MN went to be with the Lord on Sunday, July 30, 2017.

Survived by loving wife, Roxanne; sons, Paul (Tana), David (Karin), and Scott (Kim); grandchildren, Emily, JP, Andy, Jackson, Addison, and Caleb; brothers, Dennis (Gloria) and Terry (Kathy).

Phil was a devoted husband and married to Roxanne for 49 years. They met in High School and later married in 1967. Those earlier years together were spent cooking, cheering on the Huskers and spending time with friends. Focus quickly shifted to raising children when they had their first son Paul in 1970 and later David and Scott. This next phase of life was full of kids activities, camping, biking and trips to Nebraska to visit family. He taught his children about Jesus and was active in his church running technology for worship and many years of children’s musicals.

He was a life long learner and valued education. He graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1976 with a B.S. in Chemistry and then continued on at the University of Minnesota where he earned his doctorate in Medicinal Chemistry. He returned to school once more at the University of St. Thomas to earn an MBA. He loved to share his knowledge by teaching mass spectrometry courses and mentoring others during his 25 year career at 3M.

An avid Scouter, Phil earned his Arrow of Light and later his Eagle Scout award in Lincoln Nebraska. He continued his Scouting adventure as an adult holding a variety of roles while helping all three of his sons earn their Eagle Scout awards. He enjoyed many summer camps at Tomahawk Scout Reservation and two special backpacking trips with his sons at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.

Music was a passion through out his life, from playing in the marching band at the University of Nebraska, to singing in several choirs and a men’s quartet. He even directed an adult choir at his church. He loved classic hymns and singing choral music that praised the God he loved.

Spending time with his grandchildren was a huge source of joy for Phil. These activities included watching Disney movies, attending their sporting, music and theatre events, teaching them how to fish, doing puzzles, and pulling them on skis or tubes for hours behind his boat on Crosslake. He also loved planning and going on great vacations with his family. He was extremely patient and always up for an ice cream run.

Phil was truly a rock for his family. He was committed to keeping it together, helping his children with all sorts of projects, and making sure everyone knew they were loved.

Visitation 5-8 PM, Thursday, August 3, 2017 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN, 55016. Funeral Service 11 AM, Friday, August 4, 2017 at Hope Church, 7910 15th St. N., Oakdale, MN, 55128. Private interment at Cottage Grove Cemetery.

Memorials preferred.