Lyle W. Stevens

Lyle W. Stevens Marshall Lyle W. Stevens, 85, of Marshall, joined his loved ones in heaven on Wednesday, February 25, 2009. Lyle was a lifelong Marshall resident, born June 18, 1923 to Alva and Ethel (Sergent) Stevens. He graduated from Marshall High School and served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Margaret Louise Allman, whom he married on August 27, 1946. Lyle worked as a UAW machinist at the former Eaton Manufacturing plant in Battle Creek for 30 years retiring in 1980. He was an excellent mechanic known for his ingenuity and inventiveness. His garage on the banks of the Kalamazoo River on A Drive North nicknamed "The Nut Center" was a popular meeting place. Lyle spent hundreds of happy hours there repairing everything from horses hooves to lawn mowers. He enjoyed camping, bluegrass music, playing cards and watching the river go by. Lyle had three children: Larry Lee (Pat) Stevens, Gail Ann (Stewart Hummel) Stevens and Janine Kay (Randy) Moore. He was beloved by his grandson, Matthew Park Stevens, and his special granddaughter, Courtney Barnes, all of Battle Creek. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Roy (who died in infancy) and Paul Stevens, sister Mabel Kinsmanm and his son, Larry. Lyle's wishes were to be cremated and his ashes scattered in the Kalamazoo River. A memorial service celebrating his life is being held at Family Bible Church, where he was a member, 14995 U.S. 27 North, Marshall, Michigan 49068 at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 2, 2009. The family requests no flowers. Donations honoring his loving heart and willingness to be of service to others may be made to the Family Bible Church "The Least of These" Fund to the attention of Rev. Gerten at the church address above.