Cleatus M. Lyday

September 28, 1930 - May 18, 2024

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St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church

1927 Vel R. Phillips Avenue

Milwaukee, WI 53212

Wednesday 5/29, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church

1927 Vel R. Phillips Avenue

Milwaukee, WI 53212

Wednesday 5/29, 12:00 pm

Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery - Milwaukee

7301 W Nash Street

Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53216

(414) 438-4420 |

Wednesday 5/29

Our father passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 18th, 2024. He reached the golden age of 93 before God felt it was time for him to rest. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years Maria, Son Bryan (Rosie) and their children Gabriel and Nayeli, Juliette (Malcolm) and their children Briyanna, Malanii and Malcolm Jr. as well his great grandchildren (Briyanna) Carter and Carmen as well as his beloved Niece Geri. He was preceded in death by his Parents Julia and B. Eldin Lyday and his siblings Harvey, Caspar, Prentice, Naomi, Rubi and Lula Mae.

My dad was born in Eufaula, OK September 28th, 1930. He was brought up to Milwaukee by his brother Caspar and began his lif.. He attended Mesmer High School and St. Lawrence Seminary. He later attended the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee where he earned his bachelor’s degree. He went on to join the military where he became a proud Officer of the United States Marine Corp. After coming back home he started his career at the United States Post Office where he served as a purchaser. He was offered early retirement and he gladly accepted. After retirement we thought this was it for my dad but he wasn’t finished yet. He became a part of the staff at Pius XI High School as a counselor and after that he went on to become a tax preparer with H&R Block and later the office manager.

During his freetime, he enjoyed baking and cooking. He was known for his ability to cook for large crowds and never used a measuring cup or spoon to add his ingredients. He enjoyed listening to jazz and never missed going to mass. He enjoyed gardening and showing off what he harvested from his hard work. His smile and laugh was infectious. If we heard the laugh, we all would come running to see what it was that had him holding his stomach and tears rolling down his face. He truly enjoyed the holidays. Hosting family and friends, making drinks for everyone and of course…making a big meal for all to enjoy. He enjoyed showing off his skills in speaking Spanish and never missed an opportunity to dance with his wife whenever we were at a dance or celebration.

Dad, your example of kindness, humbleness, generosity and spirituality will live through us forever. You are an example to us as to how a man should take care of his family and be
supportive and also give feedback when we are not meeting your expectations. We’ve got mom now dad, you rest and know that we will take care of her, she will never be alone and we will honor you everyday. YAKADOOO!!!!

Visitation will take place at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Mass will follow the visitation at noon and a procession will follow mass to Holy Cross Cemetery.