The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE OF JOSEPH T. LETTELLEIR III
______
HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS
of florida
in the house of representatives
Thursday, July 14, 2022
Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of St. Petersburg legend, Joe Lettelleir, who was a giant in Pinellas County and left his indelible mark on everything he did whether a military veteran, business entrepreneur, respected banker, or prominent developer.
Joe moved to St. Petersburg in 1948 and attended Northeast High School where he met the love of his life, Becky. He attended Indiana University for college and served in the U.S. Army after graduation.
A man of many careers, he served as Senior Executive Vice President of Florida Federal Savings and Loan, Founder of Bay Development and Bayside Savings and Loan, and owner/operator of Paradise Lakes Resort. Most recently, Joe served as President and CEO of Contemporary Housing Alternatives of Florida (CHAF), a non-profit focused on providing affordable housing solutions in the region.
Joe was a well-known leader in St. Pete and proudly led countless boards and committees, including the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Shorecrest Preparatory School Board of Trustees, AMIKids, Quarterback Club, St. Pete Dragons, the St. Petersburg Housing Authority, and Concerned Citizens (STOP the Lens).
Through his advocacy efforts, especially on banking and housing issues, Joe befriended countless elected officials and public servants including my dear friend, the late Congressmen C.W. Bill Young and Freddy St. Germain.
While the body of his professional and charitable work was a source of pride, Joe's most meaningful work is the beautiful family he created with his wonderful wife of 56 years, Becky. Joe and Becky have three loving children, Mark, Amy and Matt; and precious grandchildren, Ryan, Riley and Reece Lettelleir, and Megan and Jake Freedman to whom he was known as ``Pa.'' He was a fixture at nearly every football, basketball, and baseball game, dance recital, cheerleading competition, and any opportunity to show his love and support for his children and grandchildren. He was also respected and cherished as a father figure to many of his children's friends, who always sought out his wisdom and guidance.
Joe, with Becky by his side, travelled the world, including all 50 states. Most visited during long road trips on America's backroads that he loved so much.
A huge sports fan, he was a die-hard Hoosier and an original season ticket holder for the Bucs and Rays. He was also a student of history and his insatiable curiosity inspired him to constantly seek knowledge.
As a great patriot of this Nation, he fittingly departed from this world on July 4th at the age of 77. He will be remembered as a man of principle and faith, the life of the party, ready with a joke or story for any occasion, and as a fiercely loyal friend who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Joe Lettelleir had a life you can hang your hat on. May his memory be everlasting.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 116(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 116(2)
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