Lyle Arthur Meschke, 81, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026.

Lyle was born on August 17, 1944, in Morristown, Minnesota, to Eleonora and Sidney Meschke. He graduated from Morristown High School in 1962 and went on to build a life rooted in hard work, faith, family, and community. Following graduation, Lyle proudly served in the United States Air Force as an air policeman, spending three years stationed in Germany.

In 1968, Lyle began farming alongside his father-in-law and went on to dedicate 39 years to livestock and crop farming, continuing the work on his own through 2007. He also served as a foreman for Fabricated Woods in Owatonna and later ran MGI Construction Company with his youngest son, Ryan. Lyle was deeply committed to his community, serving as clerk on the Owatonna Township Board for 23 years. He also gave his time as a 4-H leader, coaching the softball teams his sons played on, and was involved with Young Life, investing in the lives of high school students.

On May 4, 1968, Lyle married the love of his life, Gloria, at the Methodist Church in Owatonna. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two sons, sharing 57 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and countless memories.

Lyle had a heart for people and a gift for making others smile. He was known for his humor, kindness, and the way he made everyone feel welcome - often sharing jokes with family and friends that were hard to forget. In his free time, he and Gloria enjoyed traveling, playing pickleball, crafting, and woodworking together. He also loved golfing and gathering with his monthly poker group. Above all, Lyle cherished spending time with family and friends, and one of the greatest highlights of his life was watching his granddaughters grow up. Whether working with his hands, spending time with loved ones, or sharing a laugh, he brought warmth and joy wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria; his sons, Shawn (Kristin) of Owatonna and Ryan of Portland, OR; grandchildren, Cassie Meschke of Edina, Minnesota, and Carly Meschke of Phoenix, AZ; brother, Dave (Sharon) Meschke of Morristown; and also many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gene; and sisters, Marilyn and Marge.

Visitation be held on Tuesday, March 31, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. Visitation will take place at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 1, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Owatonna. Interment will be in Bohemian National Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church or to the donor's choice.

Lyle's laughter and the joy he brought to others will be forever remembered.