Elmer "Lyle" Wilt

Elmer “Lyle” Wilt, 90, Cherry Valley, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2015, in his home. He was born October 5, 1924, in Appleton City, Missouri, the son of Charles and Flora (Green) Wilt. Lyle lived 80 of his 90 years in Cherry Valley. He enlisted in the Army Air Force at the age of 18 and rose to the rank of Captain. He served in the 401st bomb squad group as a pilot of a B-17 bomber during WWII. Lyle married Gladys Louise Molander in Rockford in 1948. She passed away on July 25, 1987. He worked for Mechanics Universal Division of Borg Warner until his retirement. He was a member of Cherry Valley United Methodist Church. Lyle was most proud of his service to his country and his devotion to his family. A true patriot, Lyle was kind, hardworking, and was always busy doing something! He earned his pilot’s license again in his 60’s just to challenge himself. He enjoyed traveling, fishing, bowling, crafting, camping and gardening. Lyle served for many years on the board of trustees in Cherry Valley and helped establish the Cherry Valley Historical Society, of which he was the current President. He loved history and had an incredible memory for it, and would love to share it with anyone. Lyle enjoyed reading and solving crossword puzzles, especially with his dear friends, Patty, Karen, and Loretta, who would meet at the gas station for coffee in the morning. He was blessed with 90 full and incredibly healthy years.
Survived by his son, Michael Charles Wilt, and his daughters Pamela Marie (Steven) Jeske and Debra Ann (Thomas) Montana, all of Rockford; his grandchildren, Thomas (Lisa) Jeske, Sarah (Brad Jennings) Jeske, Kimberly (Paul) Andrews, Megan, Emily and Kelsie Montana; 9 great-grandchildren, Connor, Gracie, Preston, Myles, Evan, Logan, Bennett, Carter, and Ava; his brother, Vernon (Elizabeth) Wilt of Belvidere; his sister-in-law, Lodena Wilt of Cherry Valley; and his best friend and constant companion, “Burt”. Predeceased by his wife, Gladys and his brother, Robert Wilt.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, August 11, 2015, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with Reverend Vickie Hadaway of Cherry Valley United Methodist Church officiating. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. on Monday at the funeral home and from 10:00 A.M. until time of service on Tuesday. A memorial in Lyle’s name will be established at a later date. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.