Lyle grew up in rural Iowa as the 8th of 11 children in a farming family. As a young child, he loved being outdoors and hunting, as well as playing sports and singing; passions which continued throughout his life. When Lyle was old enough, he went to nursing school to become a Registered Nurse and then to anesthesia school, where he became a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. After anesthesia school, he chose to work in small rural or suburban hospitals, settling in Mauston, WI in 1988. Lyle enjoyed the family feel and slower pace of small towns, which allowed him to attend his children’s music, sporting, and academic events.
Lyle had 3 children who were the center of his world, and he instilled in them the value of giving back, lending a hand, and helping your neighbor. Lyle never sought attention for his deeds, and thus many did not know he planted a large garden annually and occasionally hunted deer, all with the intent to donate most of the produce and all the meat to the food pantry. He also volunteered with Community Sharing Food Pantry for over 20 years, unloading pallets of food as they arrived or going to pick up whatever was needed for the patrons to be fed.
Lyle’s kind and generous spirit inspired all who knew him, and his quick laugh and easy-going manner could bring a smile to anyone’s face. He is greatly missed, especially by me, his daughter.
My dad was an incredible man. He was kind and funny, dedicated to his family, and always did the right thing, no matter what the cost. I am so grateful to have him for my father and am honored to continue his mission and fight hunger in his memory. That’s why I founded this charity. For as he would say, no one should ever go hungry.
Be Well,
Megan