Lyle McFarling

Lyle Lydell McFarling died April 11th 2022 after a short illness at the age of 84.   An informal memorial will be held on June 11th, 2022 from Noon to 3pm at Rounders Sports Bar and Grill, 414 So. Front St.in Mankato. All are welcome.

He was born to Clarence McFarling and Maude Storey in Herman MN on April 21st, 1937.  Lyle graduated from high school in Watertown MN in 1955.  He subsequently attended St. Cloud State College and Mankato State College.  Lyle earned his Masters Degree in Speech Pathology at the University of Iowa in 1970.  He was a teacher in Special Education in Mankato and subsequently served as the Director of Special Education for District 77 from 1974 until his retirement in 2000.

He married Phyllis Elaine Jensen on Feb 3rd, 1962 in Ellendale MN. They remained married for 29 years.

Lyle was an outstanding high school athlete. At Watertown, he was the quarterback for the football team and a pitcher on the baseball team. He held the record for most points in a single game in basketball for several decades.  Later he enjoyed golf, running and competed in Tae Kwon Do. He continued to play basketball into his 50s.  

He enjoyed music and animals. He loved his kids above all. 

Survived by children Eric, Shannon and Julie; grandchildren Nicholas, Chase, Dylan, Kelsey and Taylor.

Preceded in death by brothers Larry McFarling and Bradley Critz

Memorial donations can be made in Lyle's name to:

Minnesota Special Olympics

900 2nd Ave. So.  Suite 300

Minneapolis, MN 55402

612-333-0999