My Dad, Gerald Boland, was a teacher in the Lyons Schools for 30 years and a coach for 21 years. He was also the only death in the 2013 Lyons flood.

My parents moved to Lyons in August of 1959. Gerald was hired as a Lyons High School Biology teacher and head Football Coach. Over the years he taught approximately 700 students in both Lyons High and Elementary Schools. Interesting side note… his first full year teaching contract was $2,500 in 1959.

While stationed at Camp Polk, LA (19-20 years old), Gerald got his first taste of teaching as he was able to create a tutoring program to help other young men stationed there to earn their GED/High School Equivalency. He was then able to attend college through the GI Bill and was the only member of his family that had the opportunity to attend college.

My parents quickly fell in love with the Town of Lyons and knew that this was where they wanted to raise their family. They encouraged their three children to take advantage of everything Lyons had to offer and were in the bleachers and audience supporting every event.

In the early hours of September 12, 2013, Gerald and Cheron evacuated their home in separate vehicles, but in the chaos of the evacuation, closed roads and flooded bridges, they lost sight of each other and became separated. My Dad eventually drove back up the canyon to look for my Mom where he was washed away by the flood waters and his body was recovered just over a week later. He was the only death in the Lyons flood.

He is missed very much by his family, and each year we are so honored to present the Gerald Boland Memorial Scholarship to a Lyons High School graduating senior. His scholarship recognizes a student who is a leader in school and the community – one who pitches in to help others and shares Gerald’s love of the town of Lyons.

A few days before the flood, when my Dad hugged me goodbye, he said “Be Sweet”. I am forever grateful for my wonderful Dad, and for his last two words to me… Be Sweet.