Charles D. Lessly

Charles D. Lessly was born in Oklahoma City to James Ernest and Carrie E. (Oliphant) Lessly and passed away on December 5, 2016 at his home. Charles graduated from Classen High School and became a bank clerk. He enlisted in the army on December 4, 1942 at the age of 19 and served during WWII as a bomber pilot, flying a B-24. He was in the 8th Air Force, 467th Bombardment Group, 789th bomb squadron and was stationed in Rackheath, England. The 467th was known as having the best overall standing for accuracy within the 8th Air Force. Charles flew 33 combat missions, 2 of which were on D-day. He also flew a mission with the OSS for European royalty. He was honorably discharged on November 2, 1945. After his military service, he sold Quonset huts before beginning a career in the plumbing business with Crane Co. When air conditioning became available for residential use, in 1961, Charles left Crane Co. and established Aireco, Air Conditioning Supply Co., a heating and air conditioning wholesale distribution business, which he and his wife owned and operated until 1998. He loved working in the yard, exercising, and watching sports. Charlie was an avid OU football fan and was a season ticket holder for over 45 years. He also liked to read and travel with his family. Everyone will remember his soulful, contagious laugh. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and was a member of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church. He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 70 years, Mary Jane Lessly of the home; four children, David Lessly (Patsy) of Oklahoma City, Kent Lessly (Sylvia) of Swarthmore, PA, Janet Turnage (John W.) of Plano, Texas, and Mary Ann Hanshue (Gary) of Broken Arrow,; six grandchildren, Chad Lessly, Kevin Lessly (Rebecca), Paige Dillard (Marc), Cameron Lessly, Conor W. Turnage, and Benjamin Kennedy (Christine); four great-grandchildren, Halie, Hannah and Max Lessly and Chase Dillard.