Lyle Robert Etzen

Lyle Robert Etzen, 64, of State Center, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 27, 2021 under the care of UnityPoint Hospice. Per the wishes of Lyle and his family, cremation rites have been accorded by the Mitchell Family Funeral Home. A family-led celebration of life will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for later designation. For condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Lyle was born on March 31, 1957 in Forest City, Iowa to Robert “Bob” Etzen. Growing up, he excelled at basketball and was well-known as “Mr. Hustle.” He graduated from Clarion High School with the class of 1976. In 1979, Lyle began working for Chicago Northwestern Railroad, which later became Union Pacific Railroad. He retired after over 40 years of dedicated work as a machine operator. Lyle and Brenda (Tinkle) were united in marriage on August 25, 2012 at Hickory Grove Park in Colo, Iowa. Together they made their home in State Center. Lyle had a deep passion for animals and spent much of his free time as a wildlife rehabilitator. He was also a sports fanatic and especially enjoyed cheering on the Green Bay Packers, Hawkeyes and Notre Dame. Though he tended to be on the sarcastic side, his family knew he loved them deeply and they were his greatest joy, especially his grandchildren. Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 9 years, Brenda; children: Jennifer Manchester of Memphis, MO, Chris Egenberger of Marshalltown, Rob (Amber) Egenberger of Bloomfield, IA and Jesse Schanback of Melbourne; grandchildren: Curtis (Hannah) Manchester, Cameron Manchester, Caleb Manchester, Layne Egenberger and Taylor Egenberger; his siblings: Mike Etzen of Klemme and Pam (Russ) Dalbeck of Garner; aunts, uncles and many nieces, nephews, family and friends. He is also survived by his beloved dogs, Roxy and Bear and cats, Rudy and Ranger. Lyle is preceded in death by his father, Bob Etzen and his in-laws, Red and Luella Tinkle.