90 of Maryland Heights passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2020. Born on February 6, 1930 to George and Lillian Chartrand (‘nee Hohman).
Lee was married to the love of his life for 65 years, Jo Chartrand, who passed away June 7, 2015
He is survived by his children, Jolee Chartrand (Mike), Janee’ Kavanagh (Charlie), Terry Chartrand (Diane), Cindy Austin (David), Francine Muckerman (Mark), Kathryn Ragsdale (Roger). He adored his 18 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, regaling them with some of his favorite memories, particularly his days as a race car driver with his brother Jack.
His membership with Sports Car Club of America, brought the whole family together and was here that he was introduced to his hero and future man-crush, Paul Newman.
Lee was a self-taught piano player who enjoyed entertaining friends and family. He hammered out boogie-woogie and Ragtime tunes that got everyone singing along and dancing. Every day, Lee had a “to do” card and as a small business owner, antique collector, and unique problem solver, he was a master of all trades. His favorite tool was “finishing adhesive” (aka, duct tape). A prolific story teller, he was best known for his ghost stories around the campfire with his grandkids on his slice of heaven, “The Property” in Potosi, MO.
His love of the outdoors led him and his wife Jo, to find their paradise overlooking Big Creek in Troy, MO where family spent many days splashing in the creek, catching crawdads, fishing and birdwatching.
He served his country in the Korean War with the Airforce as an airplane mechanic. He retired after his 27-year career with McDonnel-Douglas at 55 yrs. old and began his encore career as an antique dealer and ice cream shop owner. Lee proudly served the St. Louis community as a member of the Masons, rising to Worshipful Master in 1984. He treasured his time with his Masonic brothers, and Lee’s kids thank them for their continued support.
SERVICES: Masonic service will be held at Kutis Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Road on Friday, June 4, 10:15 a.m. with memorial service at 10:30 a.m. Burial at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 5 from 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Diekroger Park – Wil Heiliger Activity Building (Wright City, MO).
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to your local food bank, or “Feeding America at https://feedingamerica.org
I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. My memories of him are from when he was probably less than half my current age, and I remember him as smiling and a lot of fun. I remember some ghost stories told in front of the fireplace in your house on Catherine during sleep overs. I always thought he looked like a movie star, both your parents did. They had a different vibe than most of the parents I knew at the time and I’m glad they had a lot of years together.
I am sorry for your loss. I really enjoyed reading the story of his life. I can feel his love for the family and people around him. What a full life he lived! May God be with you and comfort you.
Dear Kath, I’m so sorry to hear that your dad passed away. No more pain and he’s back with Jo. R.I.P.
So sorry for your families loss of a loving father! I know he was adored by his entire family.always . We used to get an ice cream cone at their place when we visited St.Charles they were such a cute couple serving their ice cream.
So sorry for you and your family and his whole family. A wonderful man for sure .!