Bretton "Brett" Lyman class of 1990

November 26, 1971 - March 28, 2026

Bretton Alan Lyman, age 54, of Traverse City, passed away on March 28, 2026.

Brett was truly a kind and charismatic man, and as a friend recently said, "he did not have a mean bone in his body." Brilliant and funny with a quick wit, he was well liked by all who knew him and was known to be a person of great integrity. Brett had an insatiable desire for learning and an inquiring mind that encompassed a wide variety of topics, ranging from history and ancient philosophy to modern science. He was also adventurous and explored life to its fullest.

Brett spent many years as a commercial pilot, initially flying freight and overnight mail in various parts of the United States. He continued his flying career with the airlines, flying turboprops and then jets, becoming a Captain at a young age. His love for flying took him all over the United States.

Brett's adventurous spirit also manifested in his love of nature and the outdoors. He loved backpacking in remote areas, boating, snorkeling, and he worked on a charter fishing boat in the Pacific. Eventually, Brett settled in Monterrey, Mexico for 8 years where his bilingual skills enabled him to start a school teaching English to children and employees of American companies before returning to Traverse City.

Brett will be deeply missed by his father, Greg Lyman; sisters, Megan (Geoff) Feil, Cortney (Chris) Danbrook, Hilary Lyman Bower (Ross Bower); nieces and nephews, Samantha and Emma Feil, Brogan and Hudson Danbrook, Mya, Anora, and Beckham Bower; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members.

Brett was preceded in death by his mother, Susan Lynn Swanson Lyman, in 2021.

A Memorial Service will be held at a future date, with burial at the Peninsula Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions in his honor may be given to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy.

To leave a message from the family, please visit www.reynolds-jonkoff.com . 

Additionally, this information was released by the family after his obituary was published:

"We have finalized details for Bretton Lyman’s service for those that have asked and would like to join us to celebrate Brett’s life: A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at the Peninsula Township Cemetery. A Celebration will follow the graveside service at 4:00 pm at Brett’s family’s home. Contact skylanegreg@gmail.com for more information and directions."

Our thanks to Ansara Hirst Piebenga OHS Class of 1989 for notification.

 Published March 30, 1983 Lansing State Journal

 Published September 17, 1994 Lansing State Journal

https://www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com/obituaries/bretton-lyman#!/Obituary