Hugh William Lyons

Hughie was born in a taxi cab in a town near Denver, Colorado in 1928 to Marguerite and James Lyons. He was the second youngest of six children. The family moved to San Diego shortly after.

Hughie graduated from Hoover High School in 1946. Hughie excelled as a running back on the football team and he also organized the first gymnastics program at Hoover. He also started the weight lifting program for the Hoover football team.

In 1950 Hughie married the love of his life, Geraldine “Gerry” Grignon. In the early years of their marriage they toured the country performing an acrobatic adagio dance act. They worked with many celebrities such as Elvis, Bob Hope, Jack Benny, Judy Garland, Wayne Newton, The Jackson Five and many more. After their four sons came along Hughie began a new acrobatic and balancing act to include the kids. They performed at many venues, including state and county fairs, military bases, night clubs, on the variety TV show “Hollywood Palace”, the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas and the Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen.

In 1946 Hughie met his friend and future business partner Mike O'Haver. Ten years later they started Lyons & O'Haver Taxidermy. Their business first opened on El Cajon Blvd. in 1956. In 1960 they relocated to Parkway Drive in La Mesa where it continued to operate until 2019. Hughie and Mike were business partners for 64 years and friends for 74 years.

Hughie loved to hunt and fish. He was a member of several hunting organizations; Safari Club International, Ducks Unlimited and The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Hughie was also a gifted artist specializing in wildlife paintings. He created many beautiful paintings that adorn the walls of many homes around the country.

Hughie was preceded in death by his wife Gerry. They were married for 67 years.

Hughie is survived by sons, Jamie (Delores), Eric (Michelle), Lance, and Mark. 6 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Mon 7/12 from 4-8 at Featheringill Mortuary. Funeral Mass Tuesday 7/13, 10am, at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.