Lyle was born on September 19, 1942, in Brimfield to George “Pete” LaFollett and Cecile (Largent) LaFollett. He grew up in Brimfield and remained deeply connected to the community and the life he built there.
A Vietnam veteran, Lyle proudly served his country in the United States Army. Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic. He worked as both a mechanic and a farmer and, over the years, was employed by Pabst Brewery, Butternut Bakery, LaFollett Lath and Plastering, and LaFollett Trucking.
Lyle married Sharon (Jonas) LaFollett on April 20, 1968. Together, they raised their family and shared a life centered around the people they loved. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. More than anything, Lyle loved his family and could always be counted on to help whenever someone needed him. He was hardworking, generous, kindhearted, and dependable—the kind of person who would do anything for the people he loved.
He enjoyed fishing, farming, visiting with family, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs. Some of his family’s favorite memories are of Lyle cooking for everyone and simply being there whenever he was needed. He also had a legendary sweet tooth and was always happy to make a trip for a snack and a cola. Those small, familiar things will be among the many memories that make his family smile when they think of him.
Lyle is survived by his children, Mike (Luciane) LaFollett, Carin (Dave) Purtle, Lori (Ray) Vallas, and Cadie (Jerry) Adkins; his grandchildren, Allyson (Zach) Terry, Ben Adkins, Megan Vallas, Joseph (Chloe) LaFollett, Grace (Miles) Danner, Elizabeth Vallas (fiancé Chris Hernandez), Thomas Adkins, and Sydney Purtle; and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon LaFollett; his parents, Pete and Cecile LaFollett; and his siblings, Evelyn Stage, George E. LaFollett, and Donald LaFollett.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Swan Lake Memory Gardens, where Lyle will be laid to rest with military honors.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Brimfield Evangelical Free Church in Brimfield, Illinois, with a meal and time of fellowship immediately following. Arrangements are being handled by Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood.
Memorial contributions may be made to Brimfield Evangelical Free Church.
Lyle will be remembered not only for how hard he worked, but for how generously he loved his family and how reliably he showed up for them. His family will miss him deeply and will carry with them the countless ordinary moments that made life with him so special.



