It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lionel Clayton Montgomery, a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Lionel, of Avon Lake, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich legacy of love, ingenuity, and appreciation for life's simple beauties.
Born May 28, 1932, in Orillia, Ontario, Canada, to James and Dorothy (née Thorburn) Montgomery, Lionel shared his birthday with his twin brother, the late Honorable Leonard Thorburn Montgomery (Stefanie). His life was a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. He graduated from Ryerson University, in Toronto, with a Bachelor's Degree in Metallurgy (Metallurgical Engineering).
Lionel moved to the United States in 1961, proudly served in the US Army, and embarked on a remarkable career at Union Carbide. During his 42 years with the company, his exceptional talent led to 25 US patents in the field of high-temperature metals and ceramics, a true testament to his dedication and intellect. He retired as a respected Senior Research Fellow in 1995.
Beyond his professional achievements, Lionel cherished the simple joys of life. He found beauty in vibrant sunsets, the ever-changing clouds, and the songs of birds outside his window. This deep appreciation for nature extended to his meticulous gardening. His artistic spirit shone through his sculptural creations; lasting keepsakes for his family to treasure. His love for life also included the many years he spent with his beloved wife Jacqueline, whom he married in 1976.
Lionel is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Montgomery (née Rita Nolder); his daughter, Kim Montgomery of California; daughter Lysa Rodman (William) of Strongsville, OH; stepdaughter Kim von Ahrens of Lorain, OH; and stepdaughter Tamara Vasselli (Carlo) of North Carolina. He leaves behind a loving circle of grandchildren: Joshua Biklen, Ashley Rodman, Jamie Rodman, Madisen Laubenthal (Zakk), David Rodman, Dagny von Ahrens (Richard Kampert), Audrey von Ahrens, Giancarlo Vasselli, and Angelina Vasselli; and great-grandchildren: Dominic, Connor, Dylan, and Joshua Sanchez, and Reese Kampert. He is also survived by his sister, Bernice Locke of Orillia, Ontario, his sister-in-law Stefanie Montgomery of Orillia, Ontario and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Lionel's life is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Busch Funeral Home, 163 Avon-Belden Road, Avon Lake, OH 44012. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, followed by a memorial service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Lionel's memory. He will be deeply missed.