Lyle R. Bronkhorst

Lyle Robert Bronkhorst, age 88, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Prairie Ridge Assisted Living in Waupun.

Lyle was born October 25, 1937, in Metomen at home with his twin brother, Larry. On February 5, 1957, Lyle married Helen Buwalda in Brandon. They raised three children and spent most of their married lives in Waupun.

Lyle worked at Silgan for 33 years in automotive maintenance. He also owned and operated Hillside Fox Ranch from 1981 to 2011, raising foxes. An avid outdoorsman, Lyle enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a talented trapper, training others throughout the area, and participated in live fox pelt shows statewide. Lyle was a lifetime member of the NRA, National Trappers Association, and Wisconsin Trappers Association. He was also a member of Trinity Reformed Church in Waupun. 

Lyle is survived by his three children: Robert Bronkhorst of Waupun, Dawn Meyer of Waupun, and Richard Bronkhorst of Waupun; grandchildren: Ryan (Jenny) Meyer and Blake (Brittany) Bronkhorst; step-grandson, Bryon (Katie) Schrank; great-grandchildren: Sean Meyer, Olivia Meyer, Evelyn Bronkhorst, Esther Bronkhorst, and Edith Bronkhorst; step-great-granddaughter, Brynley Schrank; and further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Lyle was preceded in death by his wife and lifelong partner of 69 years, Helen Bronkhorst, who passed away this past April; his parents; siblings: Josephine Bronkhorst, Don (Inez) Bronkhorst, Larry (JoAnne) Bronkhorst, David Bronkhorst, and Dwayne Bronkhorst; children: Debra Bronkhorst and Diane Bronkhorst; and other relatives.

Visitation for Lyle will take place on Monday, October 19, 2026 at Werner Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Forest Mound Cemetery in Waupun.