Jeffery P. "Jeff" Chaltraw Sr.

Jeffery P. Chaltraw Sr., known affectionately as Jeff to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, in Sterling. Born on August 20, 1952, in Standish, Michigan, Jeff was the cherished son of the late Leonard and Louise (Somogy) Chaltraw. His life was a testament to the values of family, hard work, and the simple joys of life.
Jeff's journey began in the small town of Standish, where he grew up surrounded by a loving family. He graduated from Standish High School in the class of 1970 and went on to attend Flint Barber College, proudly carrying on the family tradition of barbering that began in 1920. Jeff dedicated over five decades to his craft, finally retiring in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of close-knit community ties and well-groomed patrons.
On April 10, 1982, Jeff married the love of his life, Colleen M. Leahy, at the Sterling United Methodist Church. Their union was blessed with love, laughter, and three wonderful children, Jeffery P. Chaltraw Jr. Kelly Chaltraw and Brittany Chaltraw-Campbell. Jeff was a loving grandfather to Brayden (Takeia) Chaltraw, Danielle Holton, Raven (Mirela) Chaltraw, Griffin Smith, Robert Chaltraw, Ryane (Chaltraw) (Nick) Wojcik, Charlie (Brenon) Joyner, Eean Campbell, Makaiya Campbell, Eveline Campbell, and Mia Campbell. He also delighted in the company of his nine great-grandchildren.
Jeff is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Colleen, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his siblings, Mary (Roger) Malmo, Lenny Chaltraw, Jolene Adams, Richard Chaltraw, and Jody Chaltraw, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter Kelly Chaltraw and his brother Danny Chaltraw.
An avid golfer, Jeff won the Coaches Classic three times, sharing these victories with his son Jeff and a close circle of friends. His love for the game was only matched by his passion for deer hunting, always in pursuit of "the big one." Jeff was also a skilled euchre player, enjoying many a game with family and friends.
Those who knew Jeff will remember him as a funny, loving, and generous man. His sense of humor brought joy to every gathering, and his generosity knew no bounds. Jeff's loving nature was the cornerstone of his family, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Jeff's life was a beautiful tapestry of dedication to his family, his work, and his community. As we bid farewell to a man of great character and warmth, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind-a legacy of love, laughter, and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear. Jeffery P. Chaltraw Sr. will be remembered not just for the life he lived, but for the countless lives he touched with his kindness and his spirit.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, at Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home Standish Chapel from 12:00pm to 4:00pm with a service to follow at 4:00pm officiated by Chaplain Randy Brokaw. After the service friends are invited to a dinner to be held at the American Legion Post 104 located at 3221 M-76 Standish Michigan.