Edward Lloyd Syron passed away on Thursday, June 9, 2022, in his home surrounded by his family. Born on July 7, 1936, Lloyd was preceded in death by his loving wife Mary Therese Syron, Maureen Syron-Wood (daughter), Bridget Syron (daughter), and Frank Syron Jr. (brother). He is survived by Ann Syron (sister), Colleen Syron (daughter), Dr. Shawn Syron (son), and Molly Syron-Gerig (daughter).
Lloyd grew up on the fairways of Pontiac Country Club, his parents’ business, where he learned the love of golf from his father, Frank Syron, who was a professional golfer. His life was a constant dedication to his family, the community, his many dear friends, and to his commitment to making the game of golf accessible to all. He was a graduate of Shrine High School; and at the age of 15, he posted a score of 69 to beat Ben Hogan when Hogan famously challenged golfers across America to an open competition on the first-ever National Golf Day. While a Varsity scholarship athlete at the University of Notre Dame, Lloyd played in 3 National Championships and led his team with the lowest team average in his senior year. At the young age of 21, he won the 1957 Michigan Amateur Golf Tournament. He was a handsome, fearless, strong, competitor who spent his early days exploring while having adventures on and off the golf courses he visited across the country. His golfing days were filled with love and laughter. He had an uncanny ability to remember details about the friends he made during his travels and the details of the courses he played. On one such trip, he met the woman of his dreams, the lovely Mary Therese McNamara. With Mary Therese’s younger brother at Notre Dame, these two began a letter correspondence that led to a wonderful 60-year marriage that produced five children and nine grandchildren.
His competitive golf career largely ended when he returned to Waterford to manage the family golf course as his own father’s health declined. While he left competition to raise a family, he continued to be a coach, mentor, and cheerleader for many avid golfers. Lloyd coached the Pontiac Catholic Golf team for 11 years and was named the Michigan High School Coach of the Year in 1981. In 2004, he was inducted into the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame not only for his mastery of the sport but for his accomplishments and commitment to making golf accessible to the public.
As a father he seemed near perfect; encouraging every adventure, and empowering every dream while unconditionally loving his five children through every choice. He’d get a twinkle in his eyes and raise one eyebrow just enough to let us know that he wished he could join our adventures. He always encouraged us to call home to convey the stories of our adventures.
