Virgil Lyle Mason

On Sunday, June 12, 2022, Virgil Lyle Mason, age 87 from Salem, Oregon, met Jesus face-to-face as He welcomed him home. He was born to Richard Sr. and Verda (Coiner) Mason on July 23, 1934 in Sacramento, California.

Lyle spent his younger years in Yuba City and Oroville, California, and Scio and Salem, Oregon. He graduated from Salem High School in 1952.

Lyle fell in love with Donna Jean Cooke at the Stayton Cannery where they worked while in high school. They were married on June 18, 1955 in Mill City, Oregon. The following day, Lyle and Donna went to Oakland, California where he was stationed at the naval hospital. They spent two and a half years in California before returning to Oregon where they built their life, home and family.

After returning to Salem, Lyle enrolled at Willamette University and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Science and a Master’s in Education. During that time, he used his hospital corpsman skills from the Navy to assist in surgery at Salem Hospital. He went to work for the Salem-Keizer School District as a science and biology teacher for ten years and spent the next 21 in administration. During those 21 years, he oversaw the Teen Parent Program, Driver’s Education, Outdoor Education, and ended at the Downtown Learning Center, where he started the GED Program.

Lyle was a member of Court Street Christian Church prior to becoming a member of First Christian Church for over 48 years. He served as an elder, a deacon and on the property committee.

Lyle enjoyed working in his yard, at the home that he and Donna built in 1964. He spent time tending to his raspberries, marionberries and more. Lyle was very creative and loved woodworking. He made many toys, cutting boards, and other items that the family still cherish. He also dabbled in glass work, whether that be stained or fused glass. Lyle supported Donna with many of her craft ideas.

Lyle was preceded in death by his wife, Donna; parents, Richard Sr. and Verda; and sister, Gwendolyn Huddleston. Survivors include; daughters, Lori Mason, Lisa Mason (Ann Welton) and Debbie (Tony) Diener; grandchildren, Javan Pavon and Kaleb Mason; and brother, Richard Jr. (Shirley) Mason.

Contributions may be made in Lyle’s memory to the American Cancer Society or First Christian Church of Salem, Oregon.

A private graveside service was held at Belcrest Memorial Park. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 3:00 pm at First Christian Church, 685 Marion St NE, Salem, Oregon 97301. Assisting the family is Virgil T. Golden Funeral Services.