Pete Lyle, Jr. transitioned on Monday, July 20, 2020 at the age of 95. He died peacefully at home with his beloved wife and family.
Pete was born in Clarksville, Tennessee on April 10, 1925 to father Pete Lyle, Sr. and mother Julia Gholson Lyle. The second youngest of eight children, he came from very humble beginnings. He often told stories about attending school at Mount Pisgah, which was also their church. He loved to reminisce about learning reading, writing, and 'ritmatic. We've all heard him say, "I don't know math, but I know 'rithmatic. If you have more going out than you have coming in, that's a problem."
While Pete's formal education ended before the eighth grade, his upbringing made him astute regarding life. He was sharp, witty, and resilient. He considered himself a survivor. Some considered him a pioneer.
Pete migrated to Toledo, Ohio in 1946, carrying the contents of his life in a pillowcase. From that pillowcase and his personal drive, Pete went on to become a mainstay in Toledo. In 1964, he became the owner of the Blum Street Café. After 50 years with no complaints, the corner of Blum and Hoag was dedicated, in his honor, as Pete Lyle, Jr. Corner. He was also a founding member or sponsor of the Inner-City Pool League, the Inner-City Car and Motorcycle Club, and the Gypsy Angels Motorcycle Club. In addition to these endeavors, Pete worked for Rossford Army, Erie Army Depot, and TextileLeather (GenCorp), from which he retired in 1988.
Pete was preceded in death by his parents and by his siblings Zelma, LeRoy, Daisy, Glenzetta, Lucille, Vestoria, and Lesley. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Eva (Snodgrass) Lyle; children Duane Snodgrass, Tyrone Snodgrass, Sr., and Chinina (Bobby) Cooper; grandchildren; special cousin, Leonia Lyle; and a host of family and friends.