Lyle Bernard Huggett

Lyle B. Huggett, age 88, of Paw Paw, passed away Friday, April 15, 2022 at the Rose Arbor Residence in Kalamazoo. Lyle was born on January 18, 1934 in Battle Creek, the only child to the late Floyd and Beatrice (Moore) Huggett.

Lyle received his Masters degree from Western Michigan University, then moved on to a longtime career with the Van Buren County ISD. He was among the first speech therapists hired within the district. He also worked in special education and with migrant students. After 37 years, Lyle retired from the district ending his career as a social worker. During his time with the ISD, he was well respected by his colleagues and many students. He never offended anyone and held strong values, believing that everyone was to be treated equally and with respect. This was reflected in his kind and loving nature towards all.

On a personal side, Lyle was raised understanding the value of travel. His parents would take him on trips every summer since his childhood. Lyle kept this tradition going as he began his own family. With his career allowing him the summers off, the family enjoyed countless camping trips to South Haven, northern Michigan to the Mackinaw Bridge and the Smokey Mountains. For more than two decades they traveled out west on skiing ventures and eventually included groups of blind adults and children to join them on their skiing trips. He was able to travel to Alaska with his father on three different occasions and several cruises with his wife, Morene. Their travel spanned around the globe from the states to Europe. Following their 50th wedding anniversary, Lyle fulfilled his longtime desire to travel to the state of Arizona. He was finally able to experience the spectacular red rocks with his own eyes. Having summers off from school, Lyle went into business for himself painting homes. His son, Christopher, was by his side assisting with the scraping and painting. This allowed Lyle the opportunity to teach his son the value and reward of hard work.

During his retirement, in addition to travel, Lyle loved to hang out in his barn where he enjoyed woodworking projects of all kinds. He was meticulous with scroll work. He also took pride in his fish pond. He spared no expense making sure his fish were receiving the best care he could offer. Lyle could often be found sitting in his swing next to the pond relaxing and visiting the fish. His strong faith in his Lord and Savior did not go unnoticed. He was a faithful and active member of the Paw Paw United Methodist Church for over 60 years.

On February 1, 1958, he was united in marriage to Morene (Jordan) Huggett who survives.

He is also survived by his daughter, Lisa Huggett; his son, Christopher Huggett; five grandchildren, Ashlee (Jon) Duke, Ryan (Clarissa) Huggett, Shelby  Huggett, Megan Huggett and Nathaniel Huggett; along with one great-grandson, Archer Huggett.

The family will receive friends Thursday, April 21, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave, Paw Paw.  Funeral services will follow on Friday at 12:00 p.m. at Paw Paw United Methodist Church, 420 West Michigan Ave., with Pastor Buff Coe officiating. Following services, there will be a luncheon at the church. Burial will conclude at Wildey Cemetery, Paw Paw.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Paw Paw United Methodist Church or charity of choice.