Daniel Lyons Obituary

Danny Lyons, 62, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2024, at Oak Trace Life Plan Community in Downers Grove, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Chicago on May 1, 1962, with Down syndrome, Danny lived a long life that embraced his special gifts, filled with positivity and grace. He excelled at Special Olympics events for many years at Independence and Shabbona Parks. His family was blessed to be part of his life and learned from his example how to treat others with sensitivity and kindness. He will be remembered for his love of life and positive outlook. He was involved in an amazing assortment of activities including music, sports, and dancing. But the thing he loved most was being surrounded by all who loved him. Danny is survived by his mother and father, Daniel and Kathleen (Kay) Lyons, and his sisters Mary Lyons (Pete Asuras), Peggy (and Tim) Pletcher, and brother Kevin (and Julie) Lyons. He also leaves his loving nephews and nieces, Matt Chakires, Brian Chakires, Colleen Pletcher, Kristen Pletcher, Kelly Lyons, and Connor Lyons. He was the fond nephew of Kay and John Buckley and Roger O'Brien. A wake service at 10:00 AM, followed by Mass at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 19, will be held at St. Mother Guerin Church (formerly St. Celestine Church), 3020 North 76th Court in Elmwood Park, Illinois 60707. Burial will be private. As a remembrance of Danny, in lieu of flowers, you may wish to give a donation to: St. Celestine at St. Mother Guerin Special Religious Education program (same address as above); Leyden Resource Center for Adults at 8607 W. Arnold, River Grove, IL 60171 or, Illinois Special Olympics at https://www.soill.org.
For those who cannot attend services, Danny's Funeral Mass will be live streamed at https://www.asimplestreaming.com/dtlyons or by clicking "Watch Now" below.
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