Lyle Dean McHenry was born on February 12, 1943, to Ralph and Thelma (Schmidt) McHenry. He grew up with a strong sense of curiosity and creativity that would shape the rest of his life. Lyle passed away on October 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and hard work that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Thelma, and his little brother, Bernard Alan McHenry. He is survived by his brother, Kennith Ray McHenry, who sadly passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, moments after speaking Lyle's name. Their family will cherish the memories of both brothers.
On June 24, 1961, Lyle married the love of his life, Judy Roles, and together they built a life full of joy, family, and adventure. They were blessed with three daughters: Jerri L. and husband Marshall Redeker of Salina; Bobbi J. and husband Doug Solt of Beloit; and Patricia A. and husband Terry Hale of Frankfort. Lyle and Judy's family grew to include six grandchildren, Garrett Redeker, Kyra Dettmer, Jacob Solt, Ashley Noll, Kathrine Boone, and Josie Hale, and thirteen great-grandchildren, all of whom were his greatest pride and joy.
Lyle was a man of many talents and an endless imagination. He loved to write poetry and short stories and even earned third place in the Kansas Poem and Short Story Contest—an achievement that brought him great pride. He was an active member of the Blue Rock Club, where he enjoyed shooting blue rock every Saturday, and he could often be found on the golf course or out riding his motorcycle, enjoying time with friends.
A natural tinkerer and builder, Lyle was never without a project. Alongside his dad and brother Kenny, he built a pontoon boat and taught his daughters how to water-ski—on a surfboard, no less! The trio also designed and built a gyrocopter that they successfully launched by pulling it behind a truck, a story that still brings smiles to the family today. Lyle and his good friend Dick Worick built a versatile tractor to scale that remains in use to this day, a testament to his ingenuity.
In 1973, Lyle opened McHenry Electric, one of his proudest accomplishments. He ran the business with his daughter Bobbi and son-in-law Doug, taking great pride in their workmanship and dedication. In 2016, he sold the business to Bobbi and Doug, who continue to carry on the family legacy with the same spirit and passion that Lyle instilled.
Lyle's quick wit, mechanical mind, and kind heart touched everyone he met. He was a storyteller, an inventor, a devoted husband, father, and grandpa—and above all, a man who loved deeply and lived fully.
Visitation will be from 1-7 PM, with family present from 4-6 PM Thursday, October 9 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home followed by cremation, & private family burial will take place at a later date. Memorials may be given to St. Jude's or the Alzheimer's Association.
Roberts Family Funeral Home
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