Lyall Robert Mabon, 78, passed away peacefully on October 5th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a long and valiant battle with cancer.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Karin, and their three daughters: Jackie (Tony) Sasso, Joy (Bern) Euler, and Susan Olson (Jeff). Lyall was a proud and loving grandfather to: Emily Sasso, Grace Olson (Seth), AJ Sasso, Jacob Sasso, Ruby Olson (Hunter), and Violet Euler. He was predeceased by his parents, Sam and Helen Mabon, brothers Ian (Jan), and Brian, and his son-in-law Bryan Olson. He will be fondly remembered by his siblings Bud (Linda), and Scott, and Linda, as well as his extended family and friends.
After graduating from The University of Waterloo in 1971, Lyall built a successful career in home construction, known for his craftsmanship, and integrity. In 1995, he and Karin purchased and restored the White Carnation Banquet Hall, which they operated for 22 years. Together, they created a welcoming space that hosted countless family celebrations and local events. The White Carnation became especially well known for its beloved weekly Sunday buffets, where guests came not just for the hearty home-cooked meals or Lyall’s homemade pies, and desserts, but for the warmth and hospitality that Lyall and Karin offered.
Outside of work, he loved baseball, whether it was pitching for his men’s team, watching as a fan of the Blue Jays, or coaching for his daughters’ baseball teams. He was an avid fisherman all his life, and his children and grandchildren have fond memories of fishing trips in North Ontario or spending time with him casting lines on the Maitland River. Most of all, he cherished spending time with family. As a grandfather, he approached every moment with the same warmth and patience, whether teaching them how to crimp the edges of a pie crust or helping them bait a hook. He always turned everyday moments into lessons filled with laughter and love.
Lyall often expressed his love for family through the things he built—swing sets, playhouses, and skating rinks—crafted with care and skill when his daughters were young and later for his grandchildren. After Karin’s stroke, Lyall poured his energy and practical genius into creating customized supports such as raised garden beds, ramps, and special tools that allowed her to stay active and continue enjoying her passion for gardening.
Though fiercely independent, Lyall was quick to lend a hand to anyone in need. He was known for his hard-working nature, straightforward honesty, and stubborn streak that only deepened his character. His devotion, creativity, and quiet strength were evident in everything he did – and they will be deeply missed.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held in Spring 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Huron Hospice, with heartfelt thanks for their compassionate care during the final difficult days. Friends may share memories and condolences online at www.mccallumpalla.ca
Shared by Pat & Bob Desjardins
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Dan Burns
Our sincere condolences to the Mabon families. Trudy and Dan
Dianne Scott
Deepest sympathy Karen & family in the loss of Lyall. My heart & prayers go out to all of you.
John Hummel
My condolences Karim for your loss.
We attended a number of weddings at the White Carnation. It was always a great time. RIP Lyall
Glenda Becker
Condolences go out to Karen and family. Our thoughts are with you.
Glenda and Ed Becker
Angela Cox
My deepest condolences Karen, Jackie, Susie and Joy. Thinking of all of you.
Darrell and Anne Abbott
Karin, and girls Thinking of you at this hard time so sorry for your loss he will be missed by many
Glenda Weaver
My deepest condolences to Karin and family.
Joan Clark
Karin,
So sorry to hear of the passing of Lyall.
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Miriam Weerasooriya
Very sad to hear of Mr. Mabon’s passing (old habits die hard!). I have many warm memories of his quiet ways but his penchant for saying something hilarious at just the right moment. Most importantly, he and Mrs. Mabon (see previous comment) made everyone entering their home feel welcome, important, and part of the family. Sincere condolences to the family at this sad time.
Stu & Pat Steenstra
Our deepest condolences to each of you. May you find peace in your special memories. Sending our love.
Stu and Pat Steenstra
Miriam Weerasooriya
I have many fond memories of hanging out with the Mabons during my high school years but particularly Mr. Mabon’s (some habits never change) quiet but hilarious sense of humour, and that twinkle in his eye when he made a joke. The welcoming environment he and Mrs. Mabon (see previous comment) created for anyone that crossed the threshold of their home was so warm and loving, one could not help but just be happy to be in their presence. Deepest sympathies to the family at this very sad time.
Gloria Carter
Karen my heart goes out to you and your family in the passing of your beloved Lyall. I always enjoyed stopping in for a visit when you were sitting on your porch. I always felt welcome and I still have the piece of paper in my wallet where he wrote your names and phone number on to call wherever I needed a ride. What kind and considerate gesture for him to do when he hadn’t known me that long.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Gloria
Glen McNeil
Our family offer our sincere condolences to Karin and all of your family.
Kathy Chambers
Deepest condolences to Karin and your family.
Tanya Ott
Sending the Mabon family my love and heartfelt condolences. I have such wonderful memories growing up with Susan and spending so much time at the Mabon’s that it felt like a second home. I remember Lyall was always busy with something and if he wasn’t working, he was sitting thinking about working – he had a creative mind and a gentle humour.
Thinking of you all and wishing you comfort.
Liz and Ken popp
Deepest sympathy to you all .
Deena Saldanha
Deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Lyall. Please accept my sincere condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts are with you as you remember and celebrate Lyall’s life.
Pat & Bob Desjardins
Karin, Jackie, Joy, Suzie and families of Lyall
Words, however kind, can’t mend your heartache: but those who care and share your loss wish you comfort and peace of mind. May you find strength in the love of family and in the warm embrace of friends.
He fought a long hard fight and now soars with the angels. Live with the memories of his kindness and happiness and it will help you through this.
Thinking of you all at this sad time and sending hugs.
Faye Ribey
Karin, Susie, Jackie, Joy and families sending my Sincere and Deep felt sympathy in the passing of Lyall a true great friend of many talents. He will be missed by all who knew him. Hugs to all.
Gene & Becky Bender
We were saddened to hear of Lyle’s passing. He did excellent work in building a dormer for us years ago, and we had a happy association with the Mabon family through a friendship shared by our daughters. I had also known Karin years before having worked in the Sears Order Office with Pat McLean. Many happy memories…our condolences to all the family.
Karen Sturdy
So sorry, Karin and Suzie, and condolences to all Lyall’s family. He was a good man and I know how much he will be missed in your lives. Thinking of you all. Karen Sturdy
June Meader
Karin my condolences
Steve and Angie Hewitt
Karin, Jackie, Joy and Susan & family, please accept our sincere condolences. Thinking of you all.
Joyce (Matthews) Black
Sincere sympathy to the families of Lyall. He grew up at Nile and his parents often visited my parents on the farm and we enjoyed many wonderful meals at the White Carnation. Thinking of you all and remember the good times.
Rick And Deb Stright
Oh Karin, Suzie and all the family. We are so sorry to hear about this huge loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you❤️.
Becky and Dave McIvor
Sincere condolences to the entire Family and friends of Lyall. May he RIP
Kathy Olson
Karin, Jackie, Joy, Susan and All of the Mabon Family. Truely a Very Sad Day with the passing of Lyall. Treasure All the Great Memories he has Made with You All!! I know there are So Many!! Lyall Your Pies were missed by all who ate them. Rest in Peace Dear Friend!!
Kathy Olson
Karin, Jackie, Joy and Susan + Family !! Sending My Sincere and Deep felt Sympathy in the death of Llyal, Husband, Father, Grandfather and Friend to All!! He will be truly Missed by ALL who knew Him. Rest in Peace Dear Llyal!!!
Connie Tasker
Karin, Susie and all of Lyall’s family I would like to offer my sincere condolences in the loss your husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, best friend and the list goes on. Even though they have lived a long life it is still hard to let them go from your life. Live with your memories of all the good times you have had to help you through this! As long as you remember he will always be with you! Hugs to all.
Jon Ginn
Karin and Mabon family
Mickey and I were sorry to hear of Lyall’s passing.
Thinking of all of you at this sad time. RIP Lyall
James Bissett
My condolences to the Family .
Jim Bissett and Family