Michael Lybarger

MADISON - Michael Bruce Lybarger, age 79, died on September 16, 2017, at home surrounded by his family. Mike was born on April 17, 1938 in Johnstown, PA, son of Bruce Franklin Lybarger and Catherine Morris Lybarger. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary; his son, Michael, daughter Catherine (Don Vasa); his sister, Kate, brother-in-law Tom Blackburn of Washington DC and extended family members.

Mike grew up in Vintondale, PA and attended St. Francis College in Loretto, PA. Through the years he remained a loyal fan of his favorite baseball team, the Pittsburgh Pirates. He received his MA in History from the University of Notre Dame, and later his PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.

Mike and Mary came to Madison in 1963. He was one of the first lay professors hired by Edgewood College and worked there until his retirement in 1999. During his 36 years at Edgewood, he taught in the History Department. He was a dedicated educator and mentor to many students. An avid reader, Mike had a wide range of interests and was well versed in many subjects. He had a special interest in all things political, running for office on several occasions. He was a baseball player, photographer, civil war historian, opera lover, builder of model airplanes, beekeeper, and spent many enjoyable hours in retirement working on his stamp collection.

The last years of Mike's life were difficult as he struggled with dementia. The family is especially grateful for all who kept in touch, our church friends who made his life more enjoyable by their visits and Agrace HospiceCare staff who enabled him to stay at home.

A service for Michael will be held on Saturday, September 23 at 11:00 am at the Lutheran Church of the Living Christ, 110 N. Gammon Road, Madison. Visitation will be at 10:00 am. All are invited to stay for refreshments afterwards.

Cress
Funeral and Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road Madison
608-238-3434