In Loving Memory of Lyle Herman Dorow

(February 28, 1935 - February 06, 2025)

Lyle Herman Dorow, a man of strength and wisdom, peacefully departed this world on February 06, 2025, at the age of 89. Lyle's life was a testament to his character of dedication, innovation, and unwavering love for family and community.

Dad was born in Neenah, Wisconsin, to the late Herbert Herman and Helen Retzlaff Dorow. When he was a junior in high school his family moved to Tryon, North Carolina. He loved the area and talked fondly about his days of playing high school football, riding his motorcycle, and driving school bus on the winding, hilly roads. After graduating high school in Tryon, he moved backed to the Neenah, Wisconsin, area where he reconnected with his first love, Kay, whom he married in 1956. After being together for over 44 years, Kay went to be with her Lord and Savior. In 2001, Lyle married Joanne, his love for the remainder of his life.

Dad's professional career spanned over four decades. After high school he attended Appleton Vocational School where he studied Industrial Electricity for two years and was commended for excellence in mathematics. He then pursued and attained his professional electrical engineer license. His expertise and innovative spirit left an indelible mark wherever he worked including 36 years at AC Sparkplug, Delco Electronics, and AC Delco – all Divisions of General Motors. Colleagues remember him for his attention to detail, leadership, creativity, and lasting contributions to these companies. He even developed a few patents during his career.

After retiring from General Motors, dad did not stop working. He worked at variety of part-time jobs including fixing coin machines for banks and driving a small van for clients of Rosalie Manor.

Dad's commitment to serving others was exemplified in his many hours of volunteer work throughout his life. He lived in Greendale, Wisconsin, for over 50 years. He was the founding scoutmaster of Troup 506, and served in multiple leadership positions, including president, of the Greendale Lion's Club, where he was a member for 40 years. He, also, served his community with his involvement with the Greendale Historical Society and Greendale Health Department.

Even with his many responsibilities, dad always made time for his family, friends, and passions. His interests included dart ball, volleyball, golfing, motorcycle riding, computer building, and photography. An avid card player, dad enjoyed games like Bridge, Cribbage, and Sheepshead with friends and family. In his later years, he embraced technology further by teaching himself computer programming, 3D printing and laser engraving. Dad could figure out how to fix almost anything. He had a very logical, analytical, and innovative mind. He loved watering and caring for his plants. After moving to Layton Terrace senior living community, dad became involved with "The Residents Committee", writing articles and assisting in compiling the community newspaper. He, also, created computer games (like horse racing and dice baseball) for the residents to play in their community activity room. He was the go-to guy when it came to helping others fix their computers and other electronic devices.

Over the years, he shared his passions for camping, automotive tinkering, travel (domestic and international), and sightseeing with his children and grandchildren. Dad's presence at countless sporting events and family gatherings was a testament to his unwavering support and love for his family.

Lyle will be forever remembered by his loving wife of 23 years, Joanne (Kracke Rottiger), and his children, Scot (Bonnie), Dale (Robin), Vicky (Allen Jr.) Epps, and Michael (Erik) Rottiger; grandchildren, April, Anthony Jr., Christopher, Benjamin, William, and Allen III; and great grandchildren, Jaylssa, Anthony III, Ashley, Annalise, Kash, Francesca, Garrett, Blair, Genesis, Zerenty, Millenni, and Lyle; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who were blessed to know him.

Dad was preceded in death by his first wife of 44 years, Kay Sherrill (Denney); sisters, Mae, Elda, and, Janis; brother Leslie; and grandchildren, Monique, Andrew, and Stephanie.

Although Lyle may not have liked being the center of attention, he deserves to have his long years of fatherly love honored. He was a man of wisdom, knowledge, patience, integrity, and honesty, leaving a lasting impression on all of the lives he touched.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we find comfort in the knowledge that dad's legacy lives on through the lessons he imparted, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever. His life serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the power of dedication, the importance of family, and the joy of pursuing one's interests and passions.

The family suggests donations to The Greendale Lion's Club, P.O. Box 241, Greendale, WI 53129, indicating, "In Memory of Lyle Dorow".