Lyle Henry Sugarbaker's Obituary
Mr. Lyle Henry Sugarbaker, age 99, passed away at his home on Saturday, April 8, 2023. He was born on July 10, 1923 to Henry and Eva (Jones) Sugarbaker on the family farm in Ravenna. Lyle married his high school sweetheart, Mary Jane Thompson, in 1948. They purchased the Young Farm in 1952 and raised their family. Lyle lived his life in service to others. He worked for Herman Chevrolet dealership prior to establishing L.H. Sugarbaker Trucking & Excavating serving the needs of the village, local industry, builders, and farmers for 30 years prior to his retirement in 1985. He also served his community as a volunteer fireman and later as Chief of Moorland Fire Department. Lyle was a lifelong member of the Ravenna Methodist Church. He enjoyed restoring vehicles including his prized 1928 International truck. Lyle enjoyed spending winters in Florida and appreciated engaging with friends, family, and strangers in conversation. In his later years, it was Lyle’s friends, neighbors, and son Dan that provided care and helped him stay on his cherished farm. He took pride in mowing a large lawn. Lyle was preceded in death by his wife of 29 years, Mary Jane, in 1977 and his infant sister, Daisy Jean Sugarbaker. He is survived by his children, Daniel (Beverly) Sugarbaker, Larry (Sue) Sugarbaker, and Susan (Michail) Sugarbaker; five grandchildren, Alyssa Sugarbaker, Stacy (Elliot) Rose, Travis (Eden) Sugarbaker, Stephen (Jenny) Sugarbaker, and Sarah Sugarbaker; great-grandchildren, Morgan, Taylor, and Gregory; and sister, Ruth Marie Hogan. SERVICES will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Ravenna United Methodist Church (12348 Stafford St., Ravenna, MI 49451) with Rev. David Selleck officiating. VISITATION will be one hour prior to his service. Burial will be in Ravenna Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to American Cancer Society, in memory of Mary Jane Sugarbaker, or the Ravenna United Methodist Church. Arrangements by The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St., Ravenna, MI 49451. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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