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BORN
1935
DIED
2012
FUNERAL HOME
Joseph Lett Obituary
Joseph John "Joe" Lett, 76, of Belleville, Ill., born Aug. 1, 1935, in East St. Louis, Ill., departed on Sunday, May 20, 2012, at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Belleville, Ill.
Joe was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. In addition to his family, he enjoyed spending time at his cabin in the country. His skills as a marksman earned him several awards and many lifelong friendships. He loved people and never met a stranger. Joe was the former president of the Caseyville Rifle and Pistol Club, a patron member of the National Rifle Association and a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. Joe was a patriot, serving his country in the United States Army, where he attained the rank of Sergeant. Joe retired in 1991 after 25 years at Chrysler Corporation where he represented the interests of the members of UAW Local 136. He was also employed by Kostelac Grease Service where he worked part time for nearly 50 years.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Mary Ellen, nee Powderly, Lett; brother, Robert Lett; and sister, Rita Sweet.
Surviving Joe are his wife of 46 years, Mary Ann, nee Meurer, Lett; daughter, Jo Ann (Mike) Buettner of Belleville, Ill.; son, Danny (Polly) Lett of Creve Coeur, Mo.; and daughter, Mary Jo (Chris) Guinn of Lebanon, Ill.; sister, Virginia Kraska; grandchildren, Justin, Jill Ann and Jacob Buettner, Julia and Sarah Lett, George Winter, Jessica Kuca and Ava, Shea and Braden Guinn; grandniece Kelly Hotz, whom he thought of as another daughter; grand dog, Sancho; and many loved brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joe's name to Blessed Sacrament Parish, the National Rifle Association or the Alzheimer's Association.
Visitation: Friends may call in celebration of Joseph's life from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 22, 2012, at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home in Belleville, Ill.
Friends may also call from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 23, 2012, at Blessed Sacrament Church, Belleville, Ill.
Funeral: Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 23, 2012, at the church with the Rev. Matthew Elie officiating.
VALHALLA GAERDNER HOLTEN FUNERAL HOME, Belleville, Ill.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Lett
David Reeves
May 22, 2012
Joe was like a second father to me as I was growing up. He taught me many things in only the way that Joe could. He also taught me to shoot. A skill that still serves me well after 27 years in the service of our country. My most heartfelt condolences go out to Mary Ann, who always kept a watchful eye on my mischief, Jo Ann, who I share a birthday with, Danny, who was a better friend to me than I sometimes deserved, and Mary Jo, who was the baby sister I never had growing up. Joe, we are going to miss you greatly, and the world is diminished by your passing.
David and Tammie Reeves, David Jr, and Andrew.
Todd Derickson
May 22, 2012
JoAnn and family, my sincere thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Judy Winter
May 22, 2012
Dear JoAnn, Mike and all the family please accept our deepest condolences and know that we will be keeping you in our prayers. Love, Judy and Jerry
Larry and Franny Pardee
May 22, 2012
Joe's simple engaging style brought you into his relm where stories were shared and lessons were learned. He made the most of his life experiences, and his greatest tributes are his wonderful family members - those children and grandchildren who he was so proud of.
We cannot attend the funeral, but our prayers are with you.
May 22, 2012
Mary Ann, my heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time and the days, months and years ahead that you face without your loved one. When I took care of Joe, as his nurse, he always spoke highly off his family. You all will have a very special guardian angel watching over you. My thoughts and prayers will be will you today and tomorrow as you celebrate the life of Joe. RIP Joseph Lett. (Nancy Berry, Carlyle, IL)
Frank Stoltz Jr.
May 22, 2012
Uncle Joe made a difference in my life and many others lives also. His kindness and good example will live on for many of us. He was a good man.
May 22, 2012
I knew Joe in the early 50s when he worked for my father.He & I used to go on the route & he taught me how to drive the standard shift.. He lived in Briar Hill at the time.A great guy!
Bill Baugh-Tucson,Az.
Chris Tirpak
May 21, 2012
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Chris Williams
May 21, 2012
Uncle Joe will be deeply missed. We are gonna miss all of his stories,and just being in his presence.. RIP Uncle Joe. Love, Chris , Amber , Christopher , and Amelia.
May 21, 2012
Uncle Joe was a wonderful man. Our prayers are with your family at this time.
Love,
Tom, Sue, Nicki and Carly
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Valhalla Gardens of Memory3412 Frank Scott Pkwy West, Belleville, IL 62223
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