It is with heavy hearts that the family of Lyle Whitbread announce his passing on December 4, 2025, at the age of 93. Lyle passed away peacefully with his family by his side.

Lyle was born on April 9, 1932, in rural Saskatchewan. When he was young, the family moved to Flin Flon, Manitoba. At the time, there were four children—including Lyle—and after settling in Flin Flon, six more siblings joined the family. He is survived by three of them: Myrle, Dean, and Sharon.

Left to honour his memory is his wife, Jutta, with whom he shared 49 wonderful years.

Lyle is survived by his children: Rick (Louanne), Kelly (Donna), Judy (Dale) Hanke, Leslie (Marty De Decker), and Angie (Marty Friedrich). He is predeceased by his son Raymond and a grandson, Eric. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him great joy, and he was lovingly known to them as “Papa.”

Lyle spent his early working years in Flin Flon, MB, employed at Hudson Bay Mining Company. He later moved to Saskatoon, where he worked at the Duval potash mine. He was subsequently employed by SEIU (Service Employees International Union) for several years until his retirement.

After retiring, he moved to Missinipe/Otter Lake—an area he had cherished for many summers. He loved lake life, especially fishing, and was known to outfish nearly everyone who joined him on the water. He also spent time guiding for Thompson’s Camp. When he wasn’t fishing, he enjoyed playing crib and sharing laughs with friends. One of the joys of his northern years was playing Santa at Grandmother’s Bay, watching the children grow from little ones into young adults—and feeling honoured to be invited to their graduations.

In 2007, Lyle and Jutta moved to North Battleford. Although he missed lake life dearly, he continued to enjoy many of his favourite pastimes. He liked meeting friends for coffee at the Co-op, playing blackjack at the casino, spending time on the golf course, and cheering on his grandson Colby at the hockey rink. Lyle was also an avid Toronto Blue Jays fan and rarely missed watching a game.

Lyle will be remembered for his rich storytelling, his sharp wit, and his warm sense of humour. His presence made gatherings brighter, and his laughter and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by his family and friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Battlefords Union Hospital, especially the nurses on the Palliative Care Unit, and to Dr. Campbell for their exceptional care and compassion during this difficult time.

As per Lyle’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Battlefords Humane Society, PO Box 645, North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y7.

Condolences for the family can be made at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium – Alyssa Kozinski Student Funeral Director

• Date : 2025-12-08
• Location : North Battleford, SK