Lyle Christianson
Lyle Edgar Christianson died peace- fully at home on October 5, 2018 in Riverside, California at the age of 91. Lyle is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Lucille Christianson; his children, Patrick Christianson, Randall Christianson, Ronald Christianson and Candace Iacobellis, 14 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. By marriage he had children Kelly Harrel, Alan Harrel, and Kimberly Harrel, 5 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Also by marriage, his sisters-in-law Lois Machado, Adele Machado, and Sue Bristow.
Lyle was born on May 26, 1927 in Santa Ana, California to his parents, Glen Christianson and Vivian Lesher. He graduated from Santa Ana High School in Orange County. In 1945 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was honorably discharged in 1946. After returning from the Navy he was drafted by Major Leaguebaseball and played in the minor league in Texas during the 1949 and 1950 seasons. After leaving baseball he returned to Santa Ana to be with his then wife Patricia and their newborn son Patrick and in the early 1950’s the family moved to Riverside. In 1955 Lyle accepted the Lord and was baptized at First Christian Church where he served as a Deacon/Elder for over a decade. Over the years the family grew in size but stayed primarily in Riverside.
Lyle worked managing retail stores for many years, but eventually went to work for the County of Riverside Office on Aging. He later took the same job with San Bernardino County and finished his working career for the Department of Public Health in San Bernardino.
Lyle’s passion for baseball never left him and he played for decades in local fastpitch softball leagues. He played and pitched in those leagues up until he was 65 before finally retiring. He also spent many years coaching youth baseball. He loved to play golf and did so for many years with friends and family. Lyle left an indelible mark on family, friends, and acquaintances for his humble demeanor, sense of humor, quiet confidence, and kindness to all. He was and is loved and will live in our hearts forever.
