George W. “Cork” Lyons, age 75 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor George, a Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 22, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. in the Riverfront Pavilion at Eagle Point Park, 2601 Shiras Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001.  Family and friends of George may visit from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Riverfront Pavilion.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving George’s family.

George was born on July 11, 1943, in Dubuque, Iowa, to George F. “Buster” and Leona V. (Meggenberg) Lyons.  He was truly happy to be able to spend his entire life here in Dubuque, surrounded by family and friends.  After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School in 1961, George was united in marriage to the love of his life, Sandy Rapp.  They were blessed with 53 years together, along with two wonderful children and four grandchildren.  His devotion and commitment to his family was a definite driving force in his life. 

He spent over 40 years as an electrician at the Dubuque Packing Company, FDL, Farmland, and Smithfield.  George remained working at the Pack building to prepare for its demolition and was the last person to turn out the lights.  He carried his strong work ethic and attention to detail into work with him every day.  After retirement, George enjoyed spending time with his family, doing home improvement projects with his son, listening to old time radio stories, and taking rides with his faithful golden retriever, Luna.

We love George more than words could say and know he will live on through us by the way he touched our lives.  Thank you, George, for every ounce of energy you spent being an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  Happy trails to you George, until we meet again on the other side.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of George include,

his loving wife,

Sandy (Rapp) Lyons, Dubuque, Iowa;

his two children,

Chris (Wendy) Lyons, Dubuque, Iowa,

and Kelly (David Svejda) Lyons, Milwaukee, Wisconsin;

his four grandchildren,

Quinn Lyons, George “Jake” Lyons, Sophia Lyons and Ryan Svejda;

his sister,

Lavina Kay Rokusek, Seattle, Washington;

along with numerous extended family members and friends.

George was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, a George W. “Cork” Lyons memorial fund has been established which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

George’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of the wonderful care and support they have provided for him, and his family.

Online condolences may be shared with George’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com