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Gary Lyman
Obituary: Gary Lyman, 76
Gary Lee Lyman, 76, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 12, 2023. He was born October 26, 1947, in Flint, the son of Harold and Jannie Barker.
Gary left Flint as a young child when his family moved to Seattle, Washington. Even at a young age, Gary began to establish an amazing work ethic. He worked different jobs in the meat cutting industry and in construction; trades that he would come to perfect over the years. Always wanting to learn more about the meat industry, Gary set his sights on Alaska. He made his way up to Anchorage after graduating high school. It was there that he was able to fulfill his dream of obtaining his pilot’s license. Having his pilot’s license, he was able to travel all over Alaska and experience many fishing and hunting adventures with wonderful friends he met along the way.
While in Alaska, Gary was always working to further his knowledge involving the meat industry. It was through this endeavor and the contacts he made along the way, that would enable him to meet his future wife, Sue. Gary met Sue in 1974, while she was in Alaska, travelling from Michigan visiting family for the summer. By the end of her stay, Gary wound up following her back to Michigan. They were married almost six months later and soon after, made the journey back up to Alaska, where they started their family. Gary had many hobbies and interests over the years: hunting, fishing, archery, travel, cooking, and many more, but his favorite activity above all, was time spent with his family. Gary and Sue would raise three children in Alaska before moving back to Michigan in 1996.
Upon their return to Michigan, Gary and Sue started up Lyman Custom Meats. Gary had created many delicious recipes for various sausages, jerky, etc, and through Lyman Custom Meats, was able to share that with the public. Gary also started Lyman Custom Tile, a ceramic tile installation business that became an outlet for his construction background. Gary worked very hard over the years to make these businesses a success but was ready to retire in 2020. This enabled him to spend quality time with his family and to thoroughly enjoy his latest and greatest title, ‘Papa’, which is what he was called by his 3 cherished grandchildren. Gary had endless love for his family and was always there with a helping hand or the answers to nearly any question. He will forever be missed.
Gary is survived by: his wife, Sue (Drum) Lyman; three children, Donnie, Dawn, and Justin Lyman; daughter-in-law Michelle (Terryn) Lyman; three grandchildren, Keller, Declan, and Blakely Lyman; sister, Beverly Jones; brothers, Donald and Richard Lyman, father-in-law Don Drum; sisters-in-law, Sheila Drum and Rhonda (Drum) Gray, and Roberta Lyman; brother-in-law, Paul Gray; and many nieces and nephews.
Gary is preceded in death by: his parents, Jannie Barker and Harold Lyman; brother, Wayne Lyman; and mother-in-law, Alta Drum.
In accordance with Gary’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
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