Lyle Gene McKee

Lyle Gene McKee, age 86, was born in Austin, MN, the eldest child of Eugene Rozell “Rosie” McKee and Irene Myrtle “Ike” Chapman. He grew up in Austin, alongside his three sisters and one brother, and formed a lifelong bond with his family.

Early in his life, Lyle served in the Navy and spent several years living in California. He enjoyed various interests, including bowling, flying kites, model trains, and a deep love for music; his absolute favorite performer being Barbra Streisand. With a booming, infectious laugh and a great sense of humor, he cherished time spent with friends and family. He was a devoted movie fan, enjoying grand cinematic epics like Ben-Hur and Gone with the Wind, while also never missing the chance to chuckle at National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation every holiday season.

Lyle met the love of his life, Charlotte Arvold, at a single parents’ event—though he wasn’t a parent quite yet. His family was certain he would meet someone special there, and they were right. Their early dates included lobster dinners and dancing at the Moose Lodge. Lyle always had a deep love for Christmas, and fittingly, he proposed to Charlotte under the tree while “Ave Maria” played in the background. They married and had one daughter, Mary McKee, who joined Charlotte’s children, David and Sara McKee, from her previous marriage. Together, they built a warm, lively home, raising three grandsons, and filling their house with love, laughter, and activity. Lyle treasured being a father, enjoying camping trips, wrestling matches, and game nights with his children and grandchildren.

Lyle worked for several years at Farmland Foods in Albert Lea before returning to school at Riverland Community College, where he trained as a machinist. He spent the remainder of his career at Owatonna Tool Company until retirement.

Later in life, Lyle discovered a passion for cross-stitching, creating intricate Christmas stockings, stunning bird designs, and a breathtaking piece gifted by a Chinese foreign exchange student coordinator, which is now prominently displayed in their living room. That masterpiece took him three years to complete! As the stitching grew heavier, he even built a custom loom to support the weight—showcasing both his creativity and determination.

He found great joy in their home on a hill near Turtle Creek, where he could often be found outside listening to the birds, watching and counting deer pass through the yard, or raking leaves. He also enjoyed occasional trips to the Twin Cities to see musicals, cheer on the Twins, and visit a model train museum.

On Thursday, February 27, 2025, Lyle joined the Lord in Heaven. He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene; mother, Irene; sister, Judy; brother-in-law, Joe; niece, Connie; and nephews, Jim, Troy, and Skipper.

He is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte; son, David; daughters, Sara and Mary; grandsons, Stephen, Tyler, Nathaniel, Matthew, Jake, Dylan, and Luke; granddaughters, Haley and Mya; great-grandsons, Kaleb, Zachary, and Nikolai; great-granddaughters, Rose, Trinity, and Ellie; siblings, Vicki, Karen, and Rick; as well as many cousins, in-laws, and dear friends.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at St. Edward Catholic Church in Austin, with Father Thien Nguyen officiating. The visitation will take place one hour prior to Mass at the church. After Mass, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Double Tree banquet center at 12:15 p.m. Interment will be the following day in Calvary Cemetery, Austin for immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Lyle’s honor. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.