Dr. William F. Lyon

Dr. William F. Lyon III (“Bill”), 89, of San Juan Capistrano, California, passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of March 25, 2026.

Bill was born on December 12, 1936, in Marion, Ohio, and was later joined by his sister, Michaela Lyon. He is survived by his wife, Jeanne; his daughter, Elizabeth; his son, William Michael; his son-in-law, Robert; and two grandchildren, Mikayla and Max.

After graduating from St. Mary’s Catholic School in 1956, Bill attended The Ohio State University (Go Buckeyes!) for undergraduate and medical school, where he later met Jeanne. He completed his internship at the Medical College of Virginia (now Virginia Commonwealth University) before joining the U.S. Navy, earning his wings at Naval Air Station Pensacola and achieving the rank of second lieutenant. He then served in Vietnam as a Naval Flight Surgeon.

During training at El Toro Marine Base, Bill fell in love with California and moved his family to Tustin during his Vietnam tour. He opened medical practices in Capistrano Beach and later in San Clemente, becoming one of the few physicians in southern Orange County at the time and performing many duties as assigned, including house calls, tonsillectomies, and delivering babies.

Dr. Lyon was also a founder of Mission Hospital, helping to develop the original complex and serving on its board. In addition to medicine, he pursued various business ventures, including founding a bank and working in real estate development.

His final medical practice was in Laguna Niguel, and he continued working for many years as an Aviation Medical Examiner, performing FAA physicals for pilots before retiring.

Bill was a longtime member of the Dana Point Yacht Club and loved Dana Point Harbor (including Turks). An avid sailor and boater, he captained his own yacht in races. He also loved Catalina Island, where he enjoyed scuba diving and spending time with family and friends. A lifelong learner, Bill loved traveling the world, exploring cuisines, learning languages, and reading.

Bill will be remembered for his generosity, his support in helping others get their start, his curiosity, his friendly nature, and his love for his family. Per his wishes, there will be no funeral. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wounded Warrior Project, or buying a friend a pint.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/dr-william-lyon/obituary/

Copy