Michael James Lyon

Michael James Lyon, born February 24, 2001, peacefully and quietly passed at home in Centennial, Colorado on July 30, 2020 at the age of nineteen.

Michael embodied love and joy in all aspects of his beautiful life. Michael cherished the ocean, chips, root beer, a good party, and outdoor time with family. Whether enjoying the guitar, dancing, or listening to his favorite songs, Michael had an eclectic taste in music. Michael’s contagious smile shined even brighter when he was with his Grandma and Grandpa Hood. The last time he saw them, Michael took his Grandma’s hand, pulled her to the rocking chair, and patted the seat. As he had done so many times before, he crawled onto her lap, gazed into her eyes, and waited for her to rock and lovingly sing to him. The same day, Michael tried out yet another new shenanigan to get a chuckle out of his beloved partner in crime, Grandpa Hood. Michael so loved making people laugh!  While Michael befriended most everyone, his deepest bond was with his big brother and fiercest advocate, Jeff. Words cannot adequately express the mutual devotion that Jeff and Michael shared; their souls will be forever connected.

Early in Michael’s life, it became evident that he would face both developmental and physical challenges.  However, Michael also had many gifts, including an incredible desire to conquer obstacles and a willingness to do hard work.  Michael was blessed with a compassionate team of doctors, therapists, teachers, neighbors, friends, and family, each of whom was instrumental in empowering him to reach milestones and to live his best life.

From the time two-year-old Michael joined Littleton Public Schools at The Village through last year’s post high school Transition Program, he was surrounded by uniquely talented people who, through trial and error, patiently engaged him in a love of learning. One summer day after middle school, a very special box arrived that profoundly changed Michael’s life. Michael’s eyes lit up like stars as he touched his first, very own communication tablet; similar to those he had used at school. He instantly picked it up, and never looked back. Michael’s world was forever opened, and with support, he was able to share his wants and needs with his entire team. Michael now had a voice.

In honor of the contributions made by the Littleton Public Schools’ Special Education Department to Michael’s development – specifically the methods and tools that provided Michael the life-altering ability to communicate – an account through Littleton Public Schools Foundation has been opened in his name: Donations to “Michael’s Voice” will provide funding for programs that support assistive technology and utilize interventions to help other children overcome challenges and find their own, unique voice. In lieu of flowers or trees, donations to Michael’s legacy may be made in his memory at: Click here: https://littletonpublicschools.net/lpsf/donate-now. Should you wish to make a tax-deductible contribution, please click on the circular “Donate” button which will direct you to the donation page. In the “My donation is for” section, you will find a drop-down menu from which you can select “Michael’s Voice”.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2020 at 9:30 AM on the lawn of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 6322 S. Lakeview Street, Littleton, Colorado. Please dress casually and consider bringing a blanket or chair. Due to the pandemic, the Church asks that all guests call (303) 798-1356 prior to arriving to provide contact information. The family asks that face coverings be worn at all times and social distancing be observed. The service will also be streamed. At-risk guests are especially encouraged to attend the service on-line. Please call the Church to obtain internet information for the streaming service.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael James Lyon, please visit our floral store.