Lyle C. Pershing, 92, of Kaufman, Texas, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024, at home.  He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother.

Lyle was born on November 1, 1932, in Littleton, Illinois, to Charles Franklin and Irma (Ussery) Pershing.  His elementary education began in the one room Flat Iron School, then one year in Moline and then to Preston, Iowa where he graduated in 1952. His commitment to his country was evident through his service in the U.S. Navy from 1952 until his honorable discharge in 1957. After serving, Lyle furthered his education at L.A. Trade Technical Junior College, earning an associate’s degree in Industrial Electronics.

On August 29, 1956, he married the love of his life, Lorraine Eileen Roebke, in South Gate, California. Their loving partnership was blessed with four wonderful children: Lorrie, Lyle “Chuck,” Lisa, and Layne. Lyle’s devotion to his family was the cornerstone of his life, and he instilled in his children the values of hard work, education, and the importance of family.

Lyle worked on ICBM Missiles in Research, Development, and Installation in Denver, Omaha, Lincoln, Kansas, and Seattle. He then worked for Warheads and Guidance Systems in Rapid City, South Dakota. 1963 brought the family to Iowa, where Lyle worked for Clinton Engines a short time, and the farm east of Maquoketa where they had a dairy operation for 20 years. He then worked for Swiss Valley Farms for 10 years retiring in 1995.

A man of the land, Lyle’s deep connection to the soil and the seasons was a testament to his character and his love for the agricultural community. He was actively involved, serving as a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Charlotte, a former 4-H Leader, and a member of the Jackson County Extension Council and Youth Committee. Lyle was also an honorary member of the Maquoketa FFA, a former member of the Dairy Promotion Association, and the USS Black Association.

Lyle’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was a talented woodcarver and an accomplished builder of furniture, creating hundreds of pieces from trees felled and sawn on his farm. His works in walnut, cherry, maple, oak, and hackberry were not just furniture but pieces of art that will be cherished for generations. Lyle also found joy in the great outdoors, whether it was turkey hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the company of his morning coffee group. His love for crypto quotes kept his mind sharp, and his travels with Lorraine brought them countless memories to treasure.

Lyle’s legacy is carried on by his beloved wife, Lorraine Pershing of Kaufman, TX; his children, Lorrie (George) Chismark of Maquoketa, IA, Lyle “Chuck” Pershing of Maquoketa, IA, Lisa (Dan) Eggers of Kaufman, TX, and Layne (Julie) Pershing of Preston, IA. His memory will also be treasured by his grandchildren, Nick (Kayla) Eggers, Emily (Shane Swenson) Eggers, and Sam Eggers; step-grandchildren, Dalton Kapparos and Gabby Kapparos; and great-grandchild, Holden Eggers. He leaves behind his brothers, Rex (Barb) Pershing of Cedar Falls, IA, and Harold Pershing of Aulander, NC. Lyle was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Franklin and Irma (Ussery) Pershing, and a sister, Beverly Stark.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Charlotte, Iowa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 P.M., Monday, November 25, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County or Always Accurate Hospice in Kaufman, Texas.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com