Yes, Ron was convicted at 17 of a gang fight which unfortunately resulted in a murder which up until Saturday, only one man knew what really happened on that night. Perhaps you could read his biography "Off the Ropes" by Candace Toft and learn for yourself.
While no, Ron Lyle was not a champion pool player. He was a champion heavy-weight boxer and provided more insight than you could imagine on inner-strength that could easily be carried over to pool.
But yes, Ron was a HUGE part of our billiard community in Denver and was not only an avid player but also a great enthusiast and student of the game. He would just come into Felt and sit for hours watching the league players, tournament players, money players, and never once caused any problems or raised his voice to anyone. He was the most gentle man you could ever meet in a pool room.
On a side note, Ron also started the Cox-Lyle Boxing Program through the Salvation Army which is a non-profit program that uses boxing as a nucleus to help promote positive personal growth and individual development for kids in the Denver area.
So, Mr. Glass-Half-Empty, I'd suggest you do a little more research next time before you so quickly reflect negatively on a recently passed man who has so positively touched more lives than you ever will. I hope that when I die someday people will remember me for the positive things I've done versus dwelling on the mistakes from my youth.
Very well said, Samm. I am lucky to have met Ron, I wish I got to know him better. He will be missed.