William Edward Lyke

ROCHESTER, MN: William Edward Lyke, Bill, 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on December 21, 2013 at his home. Bill was born April 11, 1931 in Kasson, MN to Vernon and Edna (Ellefson) Lyke. He was a 1949 graduate of West Concord High School. On January 14, 1954, Bill married Evelyn Holmes. Bill was a veteran of the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country during the Korean War. He was a life-member of the V.F.W.and the American Legion, past Commander of the American Legion and also a past District Commander of the American Legion. Bill was part of the American Legion Honor Guard for numerous years, life member of the Olmsted Voiture 40-8 and a member of the Grand Chef de Gare. He was a fireman for the City of Rochester for 26 years and retired in 1981. Being a licensed electrician and plumber, Bill ran the family business of roofing and remodeling for over 20 years. He loved working with children, being a crossing guard and a boy scout leader for pack #189. Bill enjoyed spending his time fishing but above all, Bill loved making memories with his family and friends. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Evelyn; children, Debbie (Greg) Dukart of Rochester, Fred Lyke of Rochester, Billy Lyke of Rochester, Jim (Dorene) Lyke of Rochester, Susie Hanson of Fergus Falls, MN, Art (Cristi) Lyke of Rochester; 9 grandchildren, Jason, James, Will, Jenny, Joey, Chad, Matt, Nacia, Brianna; 12 great-grandchildren; sisters, Doris (Vern) Cole, Rosemary Lyke (Robert Spindle) and sister-in-law, Eileen Lyke. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Edna; brother, Erwin, sister, Shirley and baby brother Lyke. A memorial service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, December 28, 2013 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW., Rochester. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until time of service. Rev. Chaplin J. Barnhart will be officiating. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com