Lyons, Ernest
Ernest Lyons passed away peacefully with his family by his side at Guelph General Hospital on Friday, March 3, 2023, after a brief illness. Ernest is survived and will be greatly missed by his wife of 45 years, Elizabeth (Swijters). Proud Father of Darragh, Ciara Shantz, and her husband Patrick Shantz. Loving Grandad of Briea and Reilly Shantz. Brother of Ailish Lyons. His many nieces and nephews will miss his guidance and support that he provided to them over the years. He has now joined his parents Anne (Ashmore) and Ernest Lyons (Sr.), as well his sisters, Maureen and Carmel. Ernest was born and raised in Marino in Dublin, Ireland. As a young lad, he loved hiking in the Wicklow mountains, and had a fondness for getting into mischief with his friends. Although the family trade was in printing, his true passion was music – rock and roll in particular. As a young man, his family immigrated to Canada, where they eventually settled in the Toronto area. It was here where he began his career in the music industry, playing in various bands for many years before getting involved behind the scenes in the recording studio, where he enjoyed a lengthy and successful career. He continued his singing gigs on the side, with many memorable nights enjoyed by friends and family. There was nothing more important to Ernest than his family, and he loved to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He was a true gentleman who always saw the glass as half full. Charming, outgoing and witty, with a great sense of humour, he always showed a genuine interest in those around him, and loved a good conversation. Friendships were cherished by Ernest, and he maintained many throughout the entirety of his life. Like a true Irishman, he enjoyed having a pint at the local pub, Rural Roots, where he made many new friends and special connections. Ernest loved the outdoors and the wilderness, and enjoyed his daily walks on various trails in the area. A special thanks to the doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists at both Groves Memorial Community Hospital and Guelph General Hospital ICU for the kindness, compassion and care that Ernest received during his stay there. Memorial donations to Trees for Woolwich would be appreciated, and can be made through Dreisinger Funeral Home in Elmira. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will take place at Rural Roots Brewing Company in Elmira, on May 27, 2023 from 2 p.m. onward. In celebration of Ernest, please sing a song, raise a glass, and have a conversation in his honour.
