Leysath, Charles “Chuck” - 1940-2011

GOURLAY, LEYSATH

Posted By: Polk volunteer
Date: 10/20/2024 at 08:28:36

Chuck is now at peace. He departed peacefully on Saturday, October 15, 2011 at Mercy Hospice surrounded by his caring family. A resident of the Des Moines area for the past eighteen years, Chuck was born in Bossier City, Louisiana to George and Nellie Leysath on September 10, 1940. After graduating high school in New Orleans, Chuck attended the University of New Orleans. Chuck served in the U. S. Marine Corps from 1959 until 1965.
Chuck began his career as a refrigeration and air conditioning technician before becoming branch manager and project manager for a national mechanical contractor. For the past thirteen years, Chuck was a mechanical estimator with Baker Group in Des Moines.
Although, an extremely private man, for those who knew him, Chuck cared deeply for his family and friends. He was always ready to lend a hand, provide support, or words of wisdom. He possessed a quick wit and ready sense of humor. Chuck was a long time supporter of Youth Emergency Services & Shelter (YESS), advocating for the agency and providing technical support when needed. He believed all children should have a loving family and safe home. Chuck was also an avid reader, enjoying a good book whenever possible. He enjoyed combining his fondness of travel and photography into making and saving memories. But most of all, he loved is his home in the country, the place where he could relax and spend time with family.
Chuck is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 20 years, Jane; his children Ashley of West Des Moines, William and Paige of New Orleans, LA, and Sean of Charlotte, NC; grandchildren Priscilla and Emily of New Orleans, NC; sister and brother-in-law Rebecca and James Gourlay of Burns Lake, British Columbia, the "Kids", and many family and friends. Chuck was preceded into eternal life by his parents.
Chuck's family will greet friends between 10:00 and 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 22, at Brooks Funeral Care in Clive with a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. and burial to follow at St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Cumming where he will be laid to rest with family.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Youth Emergency Services & Shelter, 918 SE 11th Street, Des Moines, IA 50309.
Published in Des Moines (IA) Register; Saturday, October 22, 2011, page 3B