Charles "Chuck" M. Leslie

Charles Milton Leslie February 22, 1923 - June 19, 2016 Born in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, to Hilliard Milton and Una Mary (Lee) Leslie, Charles “Chuck” entered into rest on June 19, 2016 in Spokane, WA. A 1940 graduate of Bonners Ferry High School, he moved to Helena, MT, to work as a Caddy at the Helena Country Club. His career in banking began in 1941 at the Union Bank & Trust Co., until drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943. He served in the 11th Armored Division in the Battle of the Bulge as Assistant Driver, Bow Gunner, and Tank Commander. Honorably discharged in 1946, Chuck attended the Washington College of Engineering in Pullman, where he met his wife, “Peggy”. They married in September 1946. Chuck returned to the Union Bank & Trust until 1949, when they moved to Spokane, WA, and began work for the Old National Bank until his retirement in 1985. A true servant leader at heart, Chuck was a 67-year member of Manito United Methodist Church, and held memberships and leadership positions in numerous civic organizations: Spokane Junior Chamber, Exchange Club, United Way, a Silver Beaver recipient from the Boy Scout Council, and a Trustee of the Comstock Foundation. He was an active Mason, belonging to Oriental Lodge #74, a 33rd Scottish Rite Mason, an Honorable Past Potentate and member of the Greeters of El Katif Shriners, Past Chairman and Board Member Emeritus of the Shriners Hospital for Children, as well as Hospital Tour Guide (1968-2013). Charles is survived by his wife, Margaret “Peg” at home; Seven Children, Son, Keith and DIL Connie; Son, Steve and DIL Shirley; Son, Bob and DIL Jeani; Daughter, Mary and SIL Tom; Son Mike and DIL Debbie; Son David; Son Brian and DIL Lori; 16 Grandchildren; 13 Great-Grandchildren, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Adelaide (Muchmore) Spear and Betty Grimm. A man of action more than words, he thoroughly loved his wife of 69 years, his family, serving others and the community, golf, crossword puzzles, meeting people, giving tours at the Shriner’s Hospital, and a great dessert. His kids and grandkids love to hear stories about how a family with seven children got by on one car, did six loads of laundry a day and always had extra room at the table for friends and family. While he and Peg didn’t always agree on politics they did agree that being present for the activities of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was their greatest joy in life. This meant more than 30 graduation ceremonies, 16 weddings and countless volleyball, football, t-ball and soccer games over the years. Keeping up with kids and grandkids often took them out of the country as they enjoyed trips to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, Greece and Israel. However, the family’s simple cabin on the Spokane River in Post Falls, Idaho, was and always will be the most cherished gathering spot and the source of a lifetime of memories for everyone. Family traditions were simple yet significant and among the things his family now treasures the most. After returning from a trip to Scotland with a blazer made from Leslie tartan a tradition began and the blazer was passed from one grandchild to the next upon high school graduation. In return, the grandkids each gifted grandpa with a sweatshirt from their college and he wore all of them with tremendous pride and admiration. He will be missed beyond measure and his legacy of love and service will be carried forward by all of us who were blessed to know him. His family is thankful for the respectful care he received from Rockwood Health Center and Hospice of Spokane. A memorial service will be held at 1pm on Friday, July 8th at Manito United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Manito Methodist Church Memorial Fund, Rockwood Healthcare Provider Scholarship Fund, Spokane Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or Hospice of Spokane.