A true newspaperman, Tim Lyke stands out among his peers. Whether measured by his contributions to the Ripon community, his influence on journalism across Wisconsin or his effect on those who worked for him, his impact on the industry is undeniable.
A longtime member of the WNA Board of Directors and past president of the association, Lyke has tirelessly advocated on behalf of freedom of information, the importance of government notices in newspapers and journalism education. Many of these convictions were undoubtedly instilled in him by his parents, Doug, a 1999 Wisconsin Newspaper Hall of Fame inductee, and Audrey, a founding member of the WNA Foundation.
After graduating from St. Olaf College, Lyke left Ripon for a short time, building a decorated career in the Twin Cities before returning to his hometown in 1990 to work at the family newspaper. For the next three decades, he led by example, gaining the respect and admiration of those around him — while building the Ripon Commonwealth Press’s reputation as the best weekly in Wisconsin.
Lyke owned and operated the Commonwealth Press for nearly 30 years before selling his family’s newspaper in 2019. Even in retirement, his dedication hasn’t waned. On a volunteer basis, he continues to help ensure the Ripon area has access to quality journalism by writing weekly editorials and reviewing page proofs.
