Obituary published on Legacy.com by Thurman Funeral Home - Richmond on Feb. 7, 2025.
Charles "Chuck" Rylan Lichte, Jr., 80, of Norborne, passed away Monday, February 3, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Chuck was born on May 7, 1944, in Lexington, the son of Charles Rylan and Lorraine Marie (Telgemeier) Lichte, Sr. He was united in marriage to Mary Ann Peck of Phoenix, AZ, on October 30, 1964; she survives of the home.
Additional survivors include: son, Charles (Kay) Lichte, III, of Norborne; daughter, Jennifer (Eric) Courtney of Norborne; brother, Dan (Wendy) Lichte of Yarnell, AZ; and niece, Heidi Lichte of North Carolina.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Steve Lichte, and nephew, Steve Lichte, Jr.
Chuck was born and raised in Missouri and Arizona, and his early years helped to shape the person he would become-dedicated, hardworking, and committed to service. He graduated from West Phoenix High School in 1962, where he was inducted into the school's Hall of Fame for wrestling, one of his proudest accomplishments. His athleticism and determination would continue to define him throughout his life.
After high school, Chuck enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for six years. His time in the Air Force Academy was marked by both dedication and sacrifice, as an injury sustained while playing football led to his early departure from active service. Despite this setback, Chuck remained passionate about his country.
Following his military service, Chuck worked a variety of jobs, and in 1979, he and his family made the decision to move to
Norborne, Missouri, after a major flood in Arizona. It was there that Chuck found new opportunities, first owning a welding shop and later taking over the Town and Country Drive-In Restaurant, which became known as Town and Country Service and Supply. Under Chuck's ownership from 1985 to the present, the business became a staple of the community.
Chuck's passion for helping others was evident not only in his work but in his active community involvement. He served on the Norborne City Council for over 20 years, spent 14 years on the Norborne School Board, including a key role in building the new Norborne High School, and was a member and past president of the Lions Club. He was always willing to give his time and energy to improve the lives of those around him.
He was also an active member and elder in the Norborne Trinity Lutheran Church. His faith was a very important part of his life.
Chuck found great joy in fishing and spending time outdoors. His love for the community and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will be remembered by all who knew him.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Norborne Trinity Lutheran Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190,
Richmond, MO 64085.
Visitation with memorial services will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025, with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M., with services to follow at 11:00 A.M. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Norborne. Inurnment will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, Norborne. Please remember to share your memories of Chuck with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.