[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 116 (Thursday, July 14, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E731-E732]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             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.

[[Page E732]]

  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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