DUDLEY-Robert K. "Butchie" Lyle, Jr., 74, a retired United States Air Force Captain, died Sunday, May 16, 2021 at UMass Memorial Health: University Campus.
He leaves 5 siblings, Barbara M. Pelczarski and her husband James of Windsor, CT, Linda L. Sullivan and her husband Mark of Frederick, MD, Michael C. Lyle of Canton, Heidi E. Lyle and her husband Frank Jarmolowicz of Ipswich, and Susan E. Lyle of Sutton; 14 nephews and nieces, Keith Pelczarski, Kristin Pelczarski, Patrick Sullivan, Brian Sullivan, Eileen Sullivan, Michael Lyle, Jr., Andrew Lyle, Laurel Jarmolowicz, Daniel Jarmolowicz, Eric Jarmolowicz, Jasiu Lyldugas, Stephen Lyle-Dugas, Jocelyn Lyle-Dugas and Peter Lyle-Dugas; 5 great-nephews and 3 great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert K. Lyle, Sr. and Rose P. (Stelmach) Lyle of Dudley.
He was born on August 4, 1946 in Webster and lived in Dudley for most of his life. He graduated from Saint Louis High School in Webster in 1964 and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from Lowell Technological Institute in 1968.
His life was one defined by service. As a Captain in the United States Air Force, he served his country for 20 years. He worked largely in missile command and meteorology, helping to ensure the safety of his fellow officers and our country.
After retiring from the Air Force in 1989, he continued to serve his community and family. He returned to Massachusetts to start a business as a general handyman and landscaper. His customers became his friends and he never turned down an opportunity to help. When his parents' health began to decline, he became their primary caregiver allowing them to live out their lives at home.
In more recent years as his own health declined, he spent much of his time at home. He rescued many wonderful cats, the most recent being Oreo who he opened his home to when they needed each other most.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 5, at 10:30 AM in the family lot in St. Joseph Garden of Peace, Old Worcester Road, Webster. The Webster-Dudley Veterans Council will provide the military honors. There are no calling hours. Donations in his name may be made to the Webster-Dudley Veterans Council, 3 Veterans Way, Webster, MA 01570. Arrangements are under the direction of Scanlon Funeral Service, 38 East Main St., Webster.