Our amazing daughter Jennifer suddenly passed away the evening of September 14, 2023.

Jenn was an anchor for our family in many ways. She was an older sister and fountain of wisdom to Cheryl (Mckay), Michael and Russell, and Jill (Wnek). As well as providing a loving home and friendship to Mom and Dad (Allyn and Nancy Lyon).

Jenn lived a life of quiet service. Her home was always open to others, taking in people that needed a safe and love-filled place to live for a night or two, or a month or more. She was especially happy to welcome people with dogs! Jenn loved animals – especially dogs – finding unconditional love through-out her life from many pets.

As a Northlight Church member, Jenn served so many church-family members. She was instrumental in helping people attend church by driving the church bus or giving rides in her van. When she had the opportunity to buy a new vehicle, maybe something fun and sporty, Jenn chose a van so that she could continue to provide rides. Jenn was also a bookkeeping and tax whiz. Jenn gave her time and knowledge freely to anyone who asked, which included tending the church’s financial records.

Jenn’s professional career had always been in service to others too. Most recently she worked as a Human Resources manager. She led with care, empathy, and clarity. Even in difficult moments she was naturally loving but always fair. Jenn taught that love for all people is important everywhere, even in the workplace.

Jennifer’s passions were writing, cooking, and fishing.

Jenn loved to write but did not write as much as she wanted to. She loved words and language and stories. Jenn spent a lot of her life immersed in books, enjoying the worlds she could visit by turning pages. She was a human encyclopedia full of random information, which made her an excellent resource to Dad when stuck on a crossword clue.

Jenn was an incredible cook, she expressed her love by cooking for others often. It was impossible for her to cook just a small meal. Family members used to tease her about dirtying every dish in the kitchen every time she cooked! But the feast she prepared was always worth it. Cooking became a challenge for Jenn in the last few years, but she always made an effort for those she loved.

Jenn’s knees loudly complained every time she got in and out of the boat, she couldn’t swim, didn’t like getting wet, hated holding slimy fish, would never clean them, but for some reason she loved to get out fishing anyway. She often caught fish when everyone else got skunked! Jenn was excited to share the fish feast with the family afterwards.

Jenn will be greatly missed by many. She touched so many peoples’ lives in ways her family is learning about. It has been a gift to learn about all the people that truly loved and appreciated her. Jenn’s quiet and accommodating nature created a space of peace and acceptance around her.

A celebration of life will be held on October 7th, at Northlight Church (160 Hillcrest Drive) from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please join us in sharing stories about Jennifer with friends, family and loved ones.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Yukon Humane Society.