June 3, 1937-April 16, 2019
Kyle Wilson departed this world peacefully in his home the morning of April 16, 2019, with his wife Susie and daughter Leslie at his side.
Kyle was born in June 3, 1937, in a farmhouse in Bona, where he was the second-born son of Elvyn Aaron Wilson and Floy Griffin Wilson.
His childhood was often spent exploring the fields and woods in the Stockton area with his brother Keith (Richard). The two brothers loved to “thump” on each other and play jokes. Kyle and Keith were known to lock up their younger cousins in the root cellar for hours at a time. His only older sibling could not say “brother” and for many family members and childhood friends, the name of “Bo” would often affectionately replace his given name.
After graduating from Stockton High School, where he was known as a tough-as-nails football player, Kyle followed his brother to the University of Missouri where he studied business. His third year of college presented a job opportunity with United Shoe Machinery and he left for Tennessee to pursue this career.
He then married Barbara Cline and they had two daughters, Leslie Lynn and Deborrah Ann. With a strong work ethic and intelligence, he began to climb the corporate ladder. His travels took him around the world — China, Germany, Italy and Hong Kong — one of his favorites was Holland during tulip time. He made many friends in his travels including Mario DiFuentes from Italy, whose close friendship endured until the very end. Kyle always enjoyed nature, especially birdwatching. With his extensive travels, he developed a diverse palate and always enjoyed fine dining.
Kyle later served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing at United Shoe Machinery, Nashville, Tennessee, and then relocated to Beverly, Massachusetts, to become President of American and Schoen Machinery Company.
It was there he met his second wife, Sue Ellen Tosi. Susie, a spirited Italian with a Bostonian, “pahk that cahr” accent, took a giant cultural leap of faith and moved back to Missouri when Kyle retired.
Kyle was always interested in real estate and then enjoyed a second career as an agent. Kyle and Susie enjoyed 21 years of marriage.
Kyle enjoyed a great story and conversation and was always equipped with a repertoire of very good jokes. He was introspective, curious, well-read and lived a life rich with cultural experiences. Even when his work responsibilities were demanding, he returned frequently to the Ozarks to hunt and fish with his brother and visit relatives.
With retirement, he was able to enjoy his roots even more and participated in the weekly “cousins” night out. The cousins, now caught up in both growth and years, have since forgiven him for his youthful pranks.
Kyle is survived by his wife, Susie; daughters Leslie Barnett and Deborrah Wilson; stepdaughter Jennifer Calvani; granddaughter Amanda Barnett; a niece; several cousins; and many friends.
Never one for pomp and circumstance, Kyle has requested no service be held.
To honor his life on earth, contributions can be made to Season’s Hospice, 1831 W. Melville Road, Springfield, MO 65803. (17c)
