William James Lennon, 84, died April 16. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Kay Adair Lennon. Born April 5, 1932, in Grand Forks, N.D., he was a son of Leola and William F.  Lennon.

The Lennons, Monroe residents of 51 years, enjoyed a strong and loving relationship and together they raised five children. His immediate family includes his wife; children Kathy and Scott Mason of Newtown, Bill and Pam Lennon of Mason, Ohio; Bob and Heather Lennon of Fredericksburg, Va.; Tim and Lauri Lennon of Brookfield, and Jennifer Lennon and Brett Ochs of Boulder, Colo. Mr Lennon also treasured his 11 grandchildren, Melanie, Thomas, Felicia, David, Lauren, Kellyann, Gregory, Cara, Jack, Timmy, and Russell. He was the oldest of four children and is survived by his siblings, Lola Schurman, Jeannine and Dan Lamont, and Larry and Sharon Lennon. Many loving brother- and sisters in-law, and nieces and nephews also survive Mr Lennon.

He graduated from high school in Galesburg, Ill., and then attended St Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa, for two years. While there, he played football and basketball and acquired the nickname "Lightning Lennon." He then joined the US Army and served during the Korean War, and upon return, finished his higher education at the University of Illinois, Champaign. Mr Lennon had a career in finance with General Electric and Bunker Ramo.

A big sports fan, his favorite teams included the New York Mets, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, UConn Huskies, and New England Patriots. He was also a great dancer and loved dancing to "Mack the Knife" with his favorite dance partner, Kay.

Surrounded by family in his last days, Mr Lennon's humor and wit were with him until the end, bringing smiles to the faces of his loved ones. He will be remembered as a wonderful father and grandfather, loving husband, and all-around great man. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service mass will take place Friday, April 22, at 11 am, at St Jude Parish, 707 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe.