ROCHELLE — Byford Ray Kyler, 95, died on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018 at the Franklin Grove Nursing and Rehab Center. He was born on March 4, 1923 in DeKalb, the son of Ernest and Beulah (Voorhies) Kyler. By married Bette Jean Vierke on July 7, 1948. They just celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. 

He served in the United States Navy as a fighter pilot during WWII in the Pacific Theater. By taught Physics at the Rochelle Township High School and was a charter member of the Rochelle Golden K.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Mel and Russ.

By is survived by his wife, Bette; two sons, John Kyler of Rochelle, and Dr. James (Julie) Kyler of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; five grandchildren, Erik (Melissa) Kyler, Brenda (Brian) Simons, Katherine Kyler, Bradley Hartman and Haley Hartman; and four great-grandchildren, Emmaline and Kendon Kyler, and Blake and Braedy Simons.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Rochelle United Methodist Church. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. on Thursday with Pastor Rob Hamilton officiating. Military Honors will be provided at the church by the U.S. Navy and the Eastern - Lee Ogle Honor Guard. Inurnment will be held later and privately at the Lawnridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Golden K or the Rochelle United Methodist Church.

Cremation care has beenprovided by Unger Horner Funeral Home. 

An online guest book is available at www.UngerHorner.com.