James E. Lyga

James E. Lyga, 84, of Beloit, WI passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025 in his home. He was born on June 16, 1941 in Independence, WI the son of Marcel and Helene (Mattison) Lyga. James was an Independence High School graduate. He later graduated from Layton School of Art in Milwaukee. James married Marilynn Sylla on September 8, 1962 at Sts Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Independence, WI. James was the proud owner of Sharpe Studio of Photography. He enjoyed sharing stories with his grandchildren of growing up in Independence and all of the history the town has. James was a self-taught wood worker and could often be found making furniture and various items to gift to people. He loved ballroom dancing with his wife, filling the wood burning stove with his son-in-law, and playing Farkle with his friends. James was a proud member of the "Old Farts Club" and enjoyed weekly meetings for breakfast. He was a car enthusiast and member of the Studebaker Club in Rockford, IL. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Marilynn Lyga; son, Christopher (Megan) Lyga; daughter, Jamie (Steve) Olin; granddaughters, Sarah (Jeff Isotalo McGuire) Olin and Jenna Olin; grandson, James Lyga; sister, Renita (James) Sinniger; brother, Robert Lyga. The family would like to give a special thank you to Beloit Regional Hospice for the excellent care they provided. Also to his son-in-law, Steve and his family for taking over James' responsibilities towards the end so he could stay home with family. A Celebration of Life for James will be held at a later date. James will always be remembered by the three mottos he lived by: "Watch out for the other guy" "Stay away from women, they are nothing but trouble" "Don't take no wooden nickels"