Lyle's Funeral Service Video

Lyle Raymond Janke, age 65, of Town of Ellington passed away peacefully on Friday, March 22, 2024 after a battle with cancer.

He was born on March 4, 1959, the oldest son of Glenn & Carol (Paul) Janke. Lyle graduated from New London Senior High School in 1977 and lived in the Maple Creek area much of his life. He was a lifelong active member of Grace Lutheran Church in Sugar Bush.

Lyle married Sonia Sasman, the mother of his children. Later, he married Lori Tesch- Janke who brought another son, Rob, into his life, she preceded him in death in 2021. On March 11, 2023, Lyle was united in marriage to Susan Walter.

Throughout his life Lyle worked at various places including Hillshire, SCA Tissue, and Clearwater, and drove his own semi for many years as an Owner-Operator for Flanagan Brothers and also drove for Hilker Trucking. He loved to travel throughout the United States.

Following in the footsteps of his father, Lyle was proud to be a volunteer firefighter. For the past 17 years he was a firefighter for the Town of Ellington. Prior to that he worked with the Maple Creek volunteers.

He was an active volunteer with New London FFA Alumni, Outagamie County Conservation Club, Model A Club, snowmobile clubs, and Town of Ellington Community Club.

Lyle also loved stock car racing and started a family tradition. Lyle, his son Gary, and grandson Tanner have all won Rookie of the Year! His passion for racing also inspired his nephews, Adam and Derek, to join in the family racing tradition. He attended many races with family members and friends.

In recent years, Lyle enjoyed helping others with tractor work and had a stump grinding business. These jobs allowed his wife Susan to spend time with him while he worked, which they both enjoyed.

He had a heart of gold and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was always willing to help or volunteer. He will be greatly missed.

Lyle is survived by his loving wife Susan, parents Carol and Glenn Janke, Children -Gary Janke, Tara (Jared) Zwiers, and Robert Tesch. Grandchildren- Tanner and Ryker Janke, Isabelle Eckhart, Lane (Samantha) Kelly, Aiden Zwiers, Brandon and Cayden Tesch. Susan's children - Jonathan Graham, Justin (Kimberly) Graham, Luke (Merry) Walter. Brothers - Steven (Marcia) Janke, Michael Janke (significant other -Lana Mellin), Susan's brother Brian(Jackie) Garbrecht. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Lyle was preceded in death by Lori Tesch-Janke and her son Brandon Tesch, his grandparents - Carl and Irene Janke, and Raymond and Fern Paul.

Lyle's family would like to thank Lyle's daughter Tara for attending appointments and support. They would also like to thank Mike Janke and many family members and friends for offering support and visits during this difficult time. A special thanks to his wife Susan, who was his main caregiver along with Aunt Leilani, which allowed Lyle to remain at home until his passing. We also thank the staff at Encircle Cancer Center and ThedaCare at Home Hospice for their compassionate care.

A Christian Funeral Service for Lyle will be Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 11 am at Grace Lutheran Church in Sugar Bush (E9680 Church Street) with Pastor Caleb Rothfuss officiating. Visitation will be held at the church Saturday from 9 am until the time of service. There will be a Firefighter Honor Service prior to the funeral service. Burial will be at the New Maple Creek Cemetery.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, April 12th from 5 - 9 pm at Outagamie County Conservation Club, N3502 Mayflower Rd, Hortonville, WI 54944. Memorial funds will be donated to various organizations that Lyle was involved with during his life.

Lyle, We will meet again in heaven some day. Susan.

Cline Hanson Funeral Home Service is assisting the family with arrangements.