Lee G. Wall

Lee G. Wall, age 95, beloved husband of Valerie Wall, passed away on Tuesday, April 7th, 2020, with his family surrounding him in the comfort of his home. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the son of Jacob and Dora Wohlgemuth. Living in many parts of St. Louis city and county when young, he developed a love and knowledge of the area and had many stories that he loved to share with friends and family.

Lee is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Valerie, his adoring daughter, Jan (Vince) Misuraca, and their two children, Mimi (Ernie) Basic, and Vincenzo Misuraca, and great grandson, Senad Jack Basic. He was a loving father to the late Lt. Col Simon Wall, M.D. and his family, and a cherished brother-in-law, and uncle to his nieces, nephews and their families.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army serving during WWII (1943-1946) and was proud to be a veteran. He was as an active member of American Legion Post #556.

Lee and Valerie met while attending Washington University in St. Louis. He challenged her to a game of chess on their first date, and while he won that game, she won his heart. They were married in 1948 and have been inseparable ever since. Lee’s career would have them make loving homes and many friends in Indiana and Utah, before returning to St. Louis to raise their family. He worked in the Aerospace Industry throughout, for Bendix Aviation (South Bend, Indiana), Thiokol (Ogden and Brigham City, Utah), McDonnell Aircraft Company (St. Louis, Missouri), and retired from McDonnell Douglas in 1987.

He was raised as a Master Mason in 1957, and received his 50-Year Pin in 2007. Joining the Valley of Saint Louis Scottish Rite in 1974, he received Knight Commander of the Court of Honor in 1983. He enjoyed the camaraderie of the organizations, having served in many leadership roles.

In retirement he was an engaged grandfather, a recreational fisherman, talented woodworker, lover of (most all) animals, and an investment enthusiast. He was very proud of the work he and his daughter Jan did to organize, fundraise and build the Chesterfield Veterans Honor Park which opened in 2017. Lee was recognized for this work and was named “Chesterfield Citizen of the Year” in 2016. He was loved for his humor and dedication as a volunteer at St. Luke’s Hospital for twenty-five years, and enjoyed building many friendships and spending time brightening the days of others.

Throughout his life, his smile, sense of humor, excellent memory, and compassion made for quick connections and lasting friendships. He was always willing to lend an ear to others and happy to share photos and anecdotes about what he held dear, his wife and family, grandchildren, great-grandchild and the Veterans Honor Park. Ever eager to tinker and help others with their projects, if a special tool, part, or unique piece of fishing tackle was sought, one could likely be shared from Lee’s carefully organized and well-stocked basement workbench and tackle collection. Later in life, he honed his gin-playing skills over many cherished hours with his son-in-law Vince, and continued to be a formidable opponent even winning their last game together.

He will be laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery when it reopens, and a celebration of his life will be held at that time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Veterans Honor Park/City of Chesterfield, 690 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, MO 63017, vhp.chesterfield.mo.us/

9 Comments

  1. Margi Berkley on April 10, 2020 at 5:47 pm

    My heart is breaking for the loss of this wonderful man. His legacy includes his family, each and every one, who carry on his kind, caring and worthwhile life. He will truly be missed by many.



  2. Sharon Stover on April 10, 2020 at 6:36 pm

    Jan and Family,
    We’re so sorry for your loss, especially at this time. You’re in my prayers.



  3. Becky Woods on April 10, 2020 at 7:43 pm

    Val, Jan and family, will really miss Lee.
    I will remember his friendship, sweet laugh, his big smile, seeing him keep up with family and friends with iPad pictures, and emails from his volunteer desk.
    He always greeted me with a smile and a hug.
    God bless and Godspeed My Friend.



  4. Jackie Bilpush on April 10, 2020 at 7:44 pm

    Such a beautiful tribute to an awesome human being. My deepest sympathies to to you, your family and your beautiful mother.



  5. Jerry Cernicky on April 10, 2020 at 8:37 pm

    Jan and family,
    I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. Cherish all the memories. He was a great man.



  6. phil LOVECCHIO on April 11, 2020 at 10:34 am

    Jan (and family) – I’m glad that I/we got to see your dad at Vince’s 60th b-day party last year…..he was always smiling, very sharp and obviously a very learned and intelligent man. Many people were able to share in his marvelous 95 years of life and adventures, such a tremendous gift ! Please accept our most sincere condolences from our family to yours.

    The LoVecchio extended family
    Colleen, Phil, Samantha, Jason, Jeff, Laine, (and very soon) Leo, Tootsie, Mila, Joesie



  7. Kathy Zehner Waters on April 11, 2020 at 7:02 pm

    It was an honor to know and work with Lee through our years together at McDonnell Douglas. He was a wonderful mentor, brilliant educator, and always caring friend. Always a gentleman (however gruff he tried to make his voice) and lived the Scout law he shared whenever possible. I will never forget his attending my retirement. What a special gift he was to all of us.



  8. Ann Misuraca on April 11, 2020 at 10:45 pm

    Dear Valerie, While I am sorry for Lee’s passing, I know he lived a truly happy and full life. He was such a wonderful friend to so many people of all ages!



  9. Maria Weir on April 14, 2020 at 4:57 pm

    I met Lee 10 years ago when he volunteered in Cardiac Rehab. We were both political junkies and would often talk politics over lunch. He ALWAYS had smile on his face. He LOVED his family and often shared stories of them. He was so full of life and was such an inspiration to me. What a great loss but I was so fortunate to have met such a great man! My condolences to you, Valerie, and your beautiful family. He will be missed.



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