Leo A. Charlton

Leo A. Charlton, age 91 of Faribault, MN passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at New Perspective Senior Living in Faribault.

Leo Alfred, the son of William and Ellen Mary (Bulger) Charlton, was born on September 14, 1933 in Williams, MN. Leo grew up in Williams, MN with 8 brothers and sisters and graduated from the Williams High School with the Class of 1951. At an early age he developed a love for the outdoors, enjoying his favorite pastimes of fishing, hunting, and playing hockey. He was an excellent hockey player and his team went to State for two consecutive years. After High School Leo joined the Air Force during the Korean war conflict. Later he would join the Army Reserves in Faribault and was credited with 30 years of military service to his country. After Korea, he married Mary Menke on August 29, 1959 in Baudette, MN and they started a family. Leo worked for North Central Airlines, first in International Falls and then in Bemidji. After having 6 children with Mary, he attended Bemidji State University and received a B.S. in Industrial Arts education. Leo next moved the family to Faribault in 1971 and was a big part of creating an Industrial Arts Program as the Work Activity Coordinator at the State Hospital and was able to apply his love for education and woodworking. During his time with the State and with a growing family to support, he drove back and forth to Mankato State University and received a Master’s Degree in Special Education. He worked 30 years for the State as a teacher. He was active with the Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis, the Rotary Club and the Catholic Church. In his retirement he volunteered his services where needed and together with his wife Mary, they were recognized by the city as Unsung Heroes.

Leo is survived by his children, Joseph (Norma) Charlton, Paul Charlton, David (Julie) Charlton, Jean (Yon) Kohlnhofer, Peter (Pamela) Charlton, and Anne (Patrick) Kraemer; 13 grandchildren, four great grandchildren; brother, Jack (Janice) Charlton; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary; brothers, Kenny, Bill, and Larry Charlton; sisters Helen Mary Baldwin, Lois Ann Forney, Joyce Charlton, and Judy Mans.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 1:30 P.M. at Divine Mercy Catholic Church, Faribault with Father Alex Marquette officiating. Interment will be held at St. Lawrence Cemetery, Faribault.

Visitation will be held from 12:30 P.M. to 1:30 P.M. at the church prior to Mass.

The Family wishes to express a very big Thank You to New Perspectives for all of their courageous work and care they provided Leo during his last days.

Funeral arrangements are being completed by the Parker Kohl Funeral Home & Crematory.