Lyle James Kielhold

July 2, 1936 – February 21, 2025

Lyle James Kielhold, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully, with family at his side, on February 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, integrity, and dedication to family.

Born on July 2, 1936 in Seneca, Wisconsin, Lyle graduated from Oregon (WI) High School in 1954. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, where he earned a degree in Agricultural Engineering in 1958. During his time at UW, he participated in ROTC and went on to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves.

While working at Cargill in Minneapolis, MN, Lyle met the love of his life, Carolyn Carlson. They were married on November 18, 1961, and soon began building a family together. Lyle’s career at Cargill led them to Omaha, NE, where they welcomed their firstborn, Nickolas.

The Kielhold family continued to grow with the births of Michelle, Steve, and Jeanne as they moved throughout the Midwest, living in Peoria, IL; Elgin, IL; and Crystal Lake, IL. In 1969, they settled in Columbus, OH, where Carolyn was finally able to fulfill her passion for horses. In 1971, they moved to Lake Zurich, IL, before relocating to Cedar, MN, in 1974, where they bought acreage, once again raising horses. In 1977, they moved to Aberdeen, SD, where Debra was born.

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents, Oris and Claudine, his brothers Allan, Oris Jr., Herman, Paul and 20 years ago by his beloved wife, Carolyn. Their marriage was filled with love, laughter, and a shared dedication to family.

Lyle was a devoted father and is survived by his five children: Nick (Nancy), Michelle (Kelly), Steve, Jeanne, and Debra (Bryan). He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren (Brittany, Benjamin, Eric, Nicole, Grayson, Sophia, Archer, and Nickolas) and four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. He had a deep love for his children and found true happiness in their laughter and presence.

He is also survived by his sister Arlene.

Lyle was a passionate sports fan who loved the thrill of competition—not just watching the games, but engaging in good natured banter with fans of rival teams. His sharp wit and playful debates made games more exciting, and he never missed an opportunity to watch and cheer on his favorite teams.

Lyle’s kindness, wisdom, and unwavering integrity made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on through the values he instilled in his family and the countless lives he touched.

Lyle will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Lyle’s life will be held in Minneapolis, MN, date yet to be determined. Information will be shared as it becomes available.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association @ https://www.alz.org/