Richard "Cleo" Lyke

Richard “Cleo” Edward Lyke, 86, of Oronoco, MN, died surrounded by the love of his immediate family December 16, 2023.

He was born in Rochester, MN on November 13, 1937 to Agnes (Harney) and Clayton Lyke. He attended Rochester High School before attending Rochester Community College and Mankato State where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Economics. Richard also served as a military policeman in the Army Reserves.

Richard met Theda (Seaworth) Lyke when he was helping launch a club for singles in Rochester, but both soon learned they had no need for such a club. They married on June 14, 1969 in Calvin, ND. A few years later they became proud parents. Richard's sons, Scott Edward Lyke and James “Jim” Edward Lyke, were two of his favorite topics of conversation. He was a proud father, father-in-law, and grandfather.

In his early years, he worked various jobs including bartending at the Eastside Inn, which was the bar his family owned in SE Rochester. It was there he honed his skill of pouring pints and holding court. In 1971 he bought his own tap beer-line cleaning and service business: Lyke’s Cleaning and Supply. For over 42 years, he ensured beer was served fresh across SE MN.

Richard “Cleo” Lyke enjoyed being active in the community, serving over the years on the Olmsted County Planning and Advisory Commission, the Olmsted Board of Adjustments, the Oronoco Township Board of Supervisors, and as a youth soccer coach. In all of these endeavors, he was able to apply one of his most practiced skills: having heartfelt conversations.

Richard loved to learn new things: regularly watching PBS, often reading almanacs and cookbooks, and always listening to differing perspectives. He celebrated every educational and occupational achievement made by his sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren: there was nothing that made him more proud.  

Both Theda and Richard enjoyed spending time with their close group of friends. From regular gatherings at Grandma’s Kitchen to attending high school sports games, he always found joy by spending time with them. Richard also found joy in a good bargain, and he never met a radio or flashlight he didn’t like. Why have one when you could have several?

Richard Lyke was preceded in death by his parents, some cousins, and many close friends. He is survived by his wife, Theda (Seaworth) Lyke, sons Scott (Heather) and James (Derval) Lyke, and his two grandchildren Katherine and Henrik.  He is also survived by two sisters, Cathy Dashow and Betty (Jerry) Potter along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN.  A memorial service will be held 11:00 am Thursday, December 21, 2023 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home with visitation one hour before the service.  Donations made to Mayo Clinic Hospice or the Fifth District Eagles Cancer Telethon would be greatly appreciated.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Lyke family; to share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com