Lyle R. Hotchkiss

Lyle Richard Hotchkiss, 83 of Rothschild Wisconsin peacefully passed away on June 27, 2026.

Lyle was born March 24, 1943, to Lester and Ruth (Plautz) Hotchkiss. He was a graduate of Wausau High School class of 1961. He married his wife Darlene Lepak, who survives him, on September 18, 1965, in Wausau at Holy Name Church.

Lyle served his country in the Army Reserves and was honorably discharged as a staff sergeant. Lyle began working as a route driver for Topper Dairy. His trucking career started with Paul Radtke trucking. He then moved on to long haul driver for Wausau Metals delivering windows to the East Coast. He then joined the sales staff for Wausau Metals and eventually retired from his estimator position at Old Castle Glass. Lyle was also a dedicated Amway consultant for many years.

He was a longtime member of Saint Mark Catholic Church. He volunteered his time as an Usher, assisting with ticket sales for the June Bug Festival and calling Bingo with his wife, Darlene.

Lyle had many hobbies, including cross country skiing and snowmobiling with family and friends, he loved to bowl and was a member of a couple of league teams with Darlene. Lyle enjoyed spending time with his cats Amy and Scooter and sunny summer days floating in the backyard pool. He was an avid sports fan of both the Packers and Brewers.

Lyle was proceeded in death by his parents, In-laws Lawrence and Cecilia (Busko) Lepak brother Les, Jr. (Sharon Niewolney) and sister-in-law Dianne (Smith) Lepak.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene of 60 years, son Brad (Sally) stepsons Al and Mitch, daughter Beth (Rob) Southwick, three granddaughters Carly (Greg) Grasse, Megan (Ryan) Vance and Rachel Southwick, brother Larry (Sally), and sister Connie (Mike) Vaningan, brothers-in-law Larry Lepak (Sue White), Randy Lepak (Jennifer) and Glenn (Dianne) Smith along with many nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, July 10 at Restlawn Memorial Chapel. Visitation will begin at 10 am with service to follow at 11am. Entombment with follow immediately at the Restlawn Memorial Chapel.

Helke Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family during this time.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Lili Gardens Assisted Living for their patience and kindness in caring for Lyle, especially Charlie ;-) and the compassionate and caring staff from Heartland Hospice.