Joseph Theodore Lettelleir III's Obituary
LETTELLEIR III, Joseph Theodore (Joe) 77, of St. Petersburg, FL passed away on July 4th, 2022 at his home. Joe was born in Indianapolis, IN on October 14, 1944 to Joe and Jeanne Lettelleir.
He is survived by Becky, his loving wife of 56 years, his daughter Amy, his sons Mark and Matt (Chevonne), his grandchildren Ryan, Riley, Reece (Lettelleir), Megan Freedman and Jake Freedman, his sister Jan Thompson (Bill) and countless friends and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Jeanne, his brother Patrick, and his daughter Erin.
Joe moved to St. Petersburg in 1948 and attended Northeast High School where he met the love of his life, Becky. He attended Indiana University for college and served in the US Army after graduation.
A man of many careers, including Senior Executive Vice President of Florida Federal Savings and Loan, Founder of Bay Development and Bayside Savings and Loan, and owner/operator of Paradise Lakes Resort, he most recently served as President and CEO of Contemporary Housing Alternatives of Florida (CHAF), a non-profit focused on providing affordable housing solutions in the region.
Joe was a well-known leader in St. Pete and proudly chaired/led countless boards and committees, including the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Shorecrest Preparatory School Board of Trustees, AMIKids, Quarterback Club, St. Pete Dragons, the St. Petersburg Housing Authority, and Concerned Citizens (STOP the Lens).
Joe was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest pride was his family.
“Pa”, as his grandkids called him, was a consistent presence at nearly every football, basketball, and baseball game, dance recital, cheerleading competition, and any opportunity to show his support for his children and grandchildren. He was also respected and cherished as an additional father figure by many of his children’s friends, whose wisdom and guidance was constantly sought.
Joe, with Becky by his side, travelled the world, including all 50 states. Most visited during long road trips on America’s backroads he loved so much.
A huge sports fan, he was a die-hard Hoosier and an original season ticket holder for the Bucs and Rays. He was a student of history and his curious mind led him to always wanting to learn more.
He will be remembered as a man of principle and faith, the life of the party, ready with a joke or story for any occasion, and as a fiercely loyal friend who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
A celebration will be held at a later date for his friends and loved ones to remember a wonderful man who led a life well lived but who left us far too soon.
In lieu of flowers we request that a donation be made in Joe’s name to AMIKids Foundation.
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