Fresno area business leader and philanthropist, William “Bill” M. Lyles, passed away at the age of 91 on Wednesday after battling a prolonged illness.
Lyles was the driving force behind Lyles Diversified, a major construction firm, for over five decades, overseeing its expansion alongside the growth of Fresno City while actively contributing to the community.
Growing with Fresno: Originally hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, Lyles began his journey into the construction industry at a young age, eventually earning a degree in civil engineering from Purdue University. His family relocated to Avenal just as World War II ended.
- Following his naval service, Lyles joined the family business and played a pivotal role in leading W.M. Lyles Co., a company specializing in infrastructure and heavy civil construction.
- Lyles was renowned for his relentless commitment towards enhancing the economic landscape of Fresno. His decades-long dedication to community service, holding leadership positions, and generously supporting numerous non-profit organizations reflected his deep-rooted belief in fostering a thriving community.
- He was a staunch advocate for the Lyles School of Engineering at Fresno State, promoting the advancement of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education in the region to create better job opportunities and strengthen the local economy.
- Outside of the board room, Lyles was a profound booster for the arts, particularly music, and was actively involved with organizations such as the Fresno Philharmonic Association, the Fresno Opera Association, the Fresno Arts Council, and the former Fresno Metropolitan Museum.
Lyles’ legacy: During his lengthy leadership tenure, Lyles, with the unwavering support of committed employees, partners, and his brother Gerald, propelled Lyles Diversified to become one of the prominent private enterprises in the region.
- The diversified conglomerate comprised subsidiaries such as American Paving Co., New England Sheet Metal and Mechanical Co., Lyles Services Co., and Advanced Integration & Controls, established in 2025.
- Notable projects included contributions to various hospitals like Clovis Community Medical Center, Madera Community Hospital, and Valley Children’s Hospital.
- Passing the torch to the next generation: Continuing his legacy, Lyles’ son, Will Lyles, who now serves as the president of Lyles Diversified, noted in a Business Journal report that the ownership of the company has transitioned to the family’s second, third, and fourth generations, in addition to dedicated employees.
