July 12, 1915 - July 10,
2005
IN MEMORIAM
I first came across Lyle Best in 1970 while I was a student at the University of
North Dakota in Grand Forks. I had bought a used 1963 Studebaker and was
in need of parts and repair expertise. It was recommended that I look up
Lyle who owned the Best Motor Company in Inkster, North Dakota. Inkster is
a small town about thirty miles west of Grand Forks so I high-tailed out in that
direction.
I met Lyle that day and afterward we became good friends, He was similar
to Gus in that he took in most every kind of work, on any make of car and was a
real problem solver. Inkster was a town of about 150 people with no paved
streets save for one stretch that connected it to the main highway.
Surrounding the garage was land filled with parts cars of all vintages and
makes. As a city boy from Chicago I was fascinated. North Dakota
used no salt in the winter and so the older vehicles even those in the junkyards
were rust-free. Lyle and I spent many a day talking about mechanics and
vehicles and funny things that happened throughout his life. Colorful and
a good heart seems an understatement in describing the man. I'll always
remember him as he is in this picture, a dear friend full of knowledge and fun.
He is sorely missed.
Mike Hammerberg
BEST MOTOR COMPANY
Inkster, North Dakota
Lyle Best, Owner
