Norman “Sandy” Lyerla, 82, of Highland, IL, formerly of St. Jacob, IL, was born July 9, 1944, in Hillsboro, IL, and passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Sandy was dedicated to his family, especially the love of his life, Pat, whom he married for 57 years. He was gifted at making beautiful black powder rifles, knives, and Native American jewelry as well as grilling the best pork steaks in town. After serving in the US Army during the Vietnam War, he worked as an electrician and retired as a proud 50-plus-year member of IBEW Local 309. For most of his life, he lived in St. Jacob, IL, where he could often be found outside tending the garden, cutting the grass, sitting and enjoying the wildlife, or working in his shed. He also enjoyed attending black powder shoots, bowling, playing pool, and dancing with Pat. He raced midget cars, loved fishing and hunting squirrels, and raced remote-controlled cars and boats. Sandy had a heart for animals and loved them all, whether they were his pets or not.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Lyerla; great-granddaughter, Lorelei Wrobbel; parents, Eldred and Deon (nee Redman) Lyerla; in-laws, Irl Pabst and Edna (nee Davis) King; brother, Donald Lyerla; brothers-in-law, Irl Pabst and James Franko; and sister-in-law, JoAnn Franko.

Surviving are his children, Tammy (Eric Duff) Wrobbel and John Lyerla of Highland, IL; grandchildren, Parker (Johannah) Wrobbel and Holland Wrobbel; brother-in-law, Charles Pabst; sisters-in-law, Rosemary Pabst and Margaret Lyerla; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Memorials may be made to Holly’s House of Hope, 1000 Zschokke Street, Highland, IL 62249. Online expressions of sympathy may be made at www.Richesonfh.com

Graveside service arrangements will be announced soon.