Christopher “Kip” Brian Lyons, known affectionately as Chris, of LaGrange, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 71.
Chris was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend whose life was defined by family, generosity, service and the lasting relationships he built with those around him.
He was the devoted husband of Susan, née Cullinan, whom he met while attending Northern Illinois University. The couple married in 1979 and went on to build a loving family together in LaGrange, where they raised their five children.
Chris is survived by his wife, Susan; his children, Chris (Sarah) Lyons, Jamie (Dustin) Dubas, Kara (Kevin) Cliggett, Kelsey (Jimmy) Westhoff, and Shannon (Justin) Supple; and his grandchildren, Will, Cameron and Noelle Lyons, Max, Jane and Riley Dubas, Ryan and Caroline Cliggett, and James Westhoff.
He is also survived by his siblings Patricia (Rich) Wyatt, Daniel (Mary Jean) Lyons, Gigi (Randy) Westerman and Erin Fuller. He was preceded in death by his sister Nancy Lyons and his parents, Daniel and Eileen Lyons.
Chris was born on January 5, 1955, in North Riverside, Illinois. He attended Mater Christi and later Fenwick High School before graduating from Northern Illinois University in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management.
His professional career included more than 35 years with McDonald’s Corporation, while he also generously served on multiple boards throughout his career.
Chris Lyons Remembered for His Family and Compassion
Although Chris accomplished much throughout his life, his family considered the family he built with Susan to be his greatest accomplishment.
Their home in LaGrange was filled with laughter, love and the everyday moments that brought their family together. Some of their favorite memories were created with their children and grandchildren, both at home and at the family lakehouse in Long Beach, Indiana.
Chris had a natural ability to make people feel seen and heard. He was known for bringing people together and providing a calm, steady presence to those who relied on him.
He was also a devoted companion to his dog, Culli, who was rarely far from his side.
A 26-Year Cancer Survivor and Patient Advocate
Chris was a 26-year survivor of Stage 4 throat cancer, an experience that profoundly influenced his desire to help others facing serious illness.
He volunteered at Hinsdale Hospital Cancer Center and became a passionate patient advocate. Through his experiences and volunteer work, he offered encouragement and support to people navigating their own cancer journeys.
His willingness to help others reflected the compassion and generosity that friends and family remembered as defining qualities throughout his life.
Chris Lyons’ Legacy
Chris will be remembered for his strength, generosity and unwavering devotion to his family.
He was a loving husband to Susan, a devoted father and grandfather, and a dependable brother and friend. His influence extended beyond his immediate family through his professional career, community service, volunteer work and countless personal relationships.
Those who knew Chris will remember the way he brought people together, listened to others and made those around him feel cared for.
His family, friends and community are now left with memories of a life filled with love, perseverance and service.
Funeral Arrangements for Chris Lyons
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Church, 124 N. Spring Ave., LaGrange, Illinois.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Chris’ name may be made to the LaGrange Area Department of Special Education (LADSE), St. Francis Xavier School, or The Rama Rec Board.
Funeral information is available through Hallowell & James Funeral Home at (708) 352-6500.
Christopher “Kip” Brian Lyons leaves behind a remarkable family and a lifetime of memories. His strength, kindness, humor, generosity and devotion to the people he loved will continue through his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, extended family and friends.
May Chris Lyons rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the love and memories they shared with him.