John L. Tyler's Obituary
John L. Tyler, 79, of Muskegon, died peacefully on Nov. 22, 2022. He was born July 5, 1943, in Muskegon to Walter and Geraldine Tyler. He graduated from Whitehall High School and attended Western Michigan University, where he met Patricia Coon. He married Patty on Aug. 1, 1964; they enjoyed many adventures together in their 58 years of marriage. John worked at Whittaker Electric before starting Peachwood Technology, a computer sales and service company. More than 40 years ago he took up the hobby for which he is most remembered – bagpiping. He played with the Muskegon Lochanside Highlanders and the Muskegon Regional Police Pipes and Drums. He played in his sons’ and granddaughter’s weddings, countless funerals, and many parades, and was in a local production of Brigadoon. He was delighted to have had his photo in the newspaper many times, including while on vacation in Mississippi when he played on the beach and his photo was on the front page! His grandchildren have memories of being either lulled to sleep or awakened in the morning by Grandpa John’s bagpipes. John also was a longtime member and past president of the Muskegon Shoreline Barbershop Harmony Society. When he wasn’t playing bagpipes or singing, he could also be found playing a guitar or encouraging his children and grandchildren to love music as he did. As much as he loved music, John’s greatest joy was his family. Whether it was attending his grandchildren’s musical or sporting events, hiking Mount Whitney with his sons, snowmobiling in younger days, or playing cards or cribbage with the grandkids – and never, ever losing on purpose – John’s family was his pride and joy. He came up with special nicknames for each of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His greatest love was his wife Patty, who survives him. He is also survived by his sons Aaron (Lisa) Tyler, Matthew (Jennifer) Tyler; grandchildren Michele (Ryan) Gill, Lindsay (Dan) Yetman, Kimberly (Jordan) Darcy, Molly Tyler, Nicholas Tyler, Harley (fiancé Travis Tate) Tyler, and Hannah Tyler; and great-grandchildren Rylee, Emma, Evie, Summer, Beckham, Penelope, Anthony, and Delilah. He is also survived by his sister Kay Blakely, brother Dennis (Peg) Tyler, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Geraldine, brother and sister-in-law Walter (Jay) and Verna Tyler and sister and brother-in-law Toni and Mike Jesse, and his dog Rowdy. VISITATION will be held from 5-8 PM Thursday, December 1, 2022 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. John's MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 11:00 AM Friday, December 2, 2022 at The Lee Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Senior Resources, 560 Seminole, Muskegon MI 49444, and/or you may bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots. John played Santa for many years for schools, a day care, and other organizations. How little is required for pleasure! The sound of a bagpipe - without music, life would be an error. - Friedrich Nietzsche
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