It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lyle Boland who died peacefully at the age of 96, only 3 days shy of his 97th birthday. Lyle was the beloved husband of Ruth, who he lost only months before, after 70 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of daughters Ann (Ralph) and Susan (Brooks), and cherished Papa to granddaughter Kristen. Lyle was also the much-loved “Uncle Lyle” to his three nieces Joan, Judy, and Pamela, and their families, whom he felt blessed to have kept in close touch throughout the years.

Born and raised in North Bay, Ontario, Lyle worked hard all of his life, first as a young man finding his way, then for his wife and family. He found his niche in sales, and was a salesman for his whole career, striving to provide a comfortable life for his family. Lyle is fondly remembered by all for his quick wit, story telling, his great smile, and a laugh that went right to his eyes, which can be seen in smiling, laughing photos.

Lyle was a wonderful dancer, and in their younger days Lyle and Ruth loved to dance to the big bands at the local dance halls. In the last few years they’d watch Lawrence Welk every Sunday afternoon, followed by the Blue Jays, baseball being another long-shared pastime. Lyle also enjoyed get-togethers with family and friends. Over the years, he was happy having 1 or 2 “guy” friends just to chat about shared interests, shoot the breeze, and have some laughs, notably his oldest friend Stan, who Lyle was still close with after 60 years.

He always supported his daughters and took great pride in all they did. In their younger years, he’d be ready with his tools and materials, to help them set up, paint, and do improvements in their homes.

Lyle had a natural inborn talent for drawing and design. He was a draftsman which held him in good stead when he took up woodworking as a hobby. He started with small wood accent pieces, then larger pieces of pine furniture for his home, his daughters, and granddaughter Kristen, which they’ll always treasure. His largest project was designing and architecting his and Ruth’s house in Bowmanville., where they lived for 30 years. Anyone who knew Lyle knew he was particular about his lawn, and it was joked that you could see the perfect crosshatching of the grass if you were flying over in an airplane.

Lyle wasn’t quick to receive praise or affection, and may not have fully realized how special and appreciated and loved he was throughout his life. He will be missed as a father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Although he was settling well into life in Toronto the past few months, Lyle sorely missed his wife Ruth every day and sometimes felt lost without her. It’s nice to think they’re together now, dancing up a storm, or having a lively discussion on the Blue Jays while watching them on TV.

It was Lyle’s wish not to have a funeral. He will be laid to rest with Ruth, in a private ceremony with immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of choice.

NORTHCUTT ELLIOTT FUNERAL HOME