Lyle Clarence Nicolai

We say goodbye to our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Lyle Clarence Nicolai, who passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on September 23, 2025. A pillar of strength and a beacon of love, Lyle's presence enriched the lives of all who knew him, and his absence leaves a deep void in our hearts.

Lyle was born on January 1, 1934, in McPherson Township to Clarence and Edna (Schuldt) Nicolai. He began his education in country school and later graduated with the St. Clair High School Class of 1952. After high school, Lyle proudly served his country in the United States Army. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned home to assist his father with the family farm. He also worked in construction before dedicating the majority of his career to Blue Earth County as a blade operator. In addition, he spent 25 years working part-time at Steel Electric.

On May 2, 1959, Lyle was united in marriage to Ruth Kiecker at St. John Lutheran Church in Fairfax. Together, they were blessed with seven children and built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. Lyle had a deep love for gardening and could be found at nearly every St. Clair sporting event—proudly cheering on generations of student-athletes. Lyle was a lifelong member of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in St. Clair.

Lyle is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ruth; children, Julie, Steven (LaVonne), Mark, Elizabeth, James (Sherry), Tom (Katie), Laura (James), eighteen grandchildren, and twenty-four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Delgene.

A quote that Lyle lived by: “I commit myself to God’s care, secure in His love for me and trusting in the salvation purchased for me through Christ’s suffering and death. I leave this world in faith, now joined with my Lord in eternal glory. I commend my loved ones to the protecting arms of God, trusting that He will continue to provide for them despite my absence. I encourage them to place their faith and trust in Him alone.”

A private service will be held for the family.

Join the family as we gather to remember Lyle on Friday, September 26th from 3 to 6 PM at 61544 185th Street, Janesville, MN 56048.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Oak Terrace Assisted Living, Benedictine Assisted Living, and St. Croix Hospice for their dedicated care over the past four years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Lyle’s honor may be directed to St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of the St. Clair, or St. Clair GIFTS Foundation.