Charles Whitney Bobinette
Charles “Chuck” Whitney Bobinette, beloved husband, devoted friend, Attorney at Law and former St. Louis City Municipal Court Judge, passed away Monday July 25, 2016. Chuck was 70 years old.
Born in Chicago on April 26, 1946 to Charles K., Attorney at Law and Lydia (nee Rockenbach), Chuck lived in Chicago through his high school graduation, and then attended Denison University where he studied political science and became a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. He moved to St. Louis to attend Saint Louis University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor degree in 1971. Following graduation he utilized his legal expertise and passion for zealous representation to assist countless people in venues including both the Missouri Supreme Court and U.S. Supreme Court. Chuck first practiced as a managing attorney for the Legal Aid Society of St. Louis. Since 1981 Chuck practiced as a partner at the law firm of Uthoff, Graeber, Bobinette & Blanke, where his civil trial and appellate practice focused on employment and business litigation, as well as in areas of personal injury and workers’ compensation.
While practicing, Chuck served as a Trial Advocacy Professor at Saint Louis University School of Law and later as an Adjunct Professor and Clinical Law Fellow at Washington University School of Law. His civic work included board service as Secretary of the City of St. Louis CASA. He was also dedicated to the Crusade Against Crime which awards its Medal of Valor in recognition of a conspicuous acts of bravery exceeding the normal demands of police service. Chuck served as a Crusade’s board member for 28 years and as its president from 1998-2002.
Notwithstanding Chuck’s legal and civic successes, he will be best remembered as a treasured friend and family man. He was beloved most by his wife Deborah (nee Lord). Together the two shared close to 40 years as partners and best friends.
Chuck is also survived by his sister Beryl Bills (late David); sister-in-law Charla Lord (Brian); nieces and nephews Colin (Rachel), Corey (Becca) and Aya Bills, Brennan and Hanna Lord-Howe; his colleagues at Uthoff, Graeber, Bobinette & Blanke; and all those who had the privilege to know him.
In Chuck’s memory, the family requests that a donation be made to either Stray Rescue of St. Louis (314-771-6121) or Chicago’s Kennicott Grove Nature Preserve (847-299-6096). Gifts are greatly appreciated.
Dear Debbie just a quick note that you and your family are in our thoughts and prays at this very difficult time. Jean and Sharon from colors of spring
Deborah, Kathy and I send our sympathies. All your time with Chuck must have been great as he was truly a giving and strong people person. From the day I first met and started working with Chuck in 1972 at Legal Aid, I always appreciated his steady, straight forward friendship. He gave a lot to those around him, and will be missed. Jim
My regrets and best wishes to Debbie on the death of Chuck. I have many fond memories of times together in your home. Mary Gagnon
Dear Mrs. Bobinette and Family,
My deepest sympathies on Chuck’s passing. I knew from Andy Rothschild that he had been ill. It is very sad news. Chuck, Andy and I were all in SLU law at the same time. Did not see Chuck a lot over the years but when I did he was always quick with a joke and maintained his ever present engaging personality. He will be sorely missed and he was a distinct credit to our legal community. Again, my deepest sympathy
I first encountered Chuck as a client, but quickly grew to greatly respect and love him. He passionately cared for me as a client, but I will always remember the patience he taught me. I reveled in his company and greatly respected him as an attorney,man and cherished friend.
Debbie, please accept my deepest sympathies for I was always aware of your never ending Love for Chuck.
Until we meet again Chuck,Love You man.
Bill
Mrs. Bobinette and Family,
While I never practiced with or against Chuck, I had the pleasure of knowing him by reputation as one of the few lawyers who gave the City of St Louis “the blues.” I would often refer clients with Employment issues to him with the confidence that they were in great hands. The light of the St Louis Bar is certainly dimmer now. I offer my prayers and condolences.
Blessings,
Michelle Smith
I first met Chuck while I was still a law student at Washington University in the early 1980s. Over the years, he always impressed me with his high degree of professionalism. I will always remember Chuck as a first rate attorney, a great teacher, and an exceptional human being.
Dear Debbie, I didn’t hear about Chuck’s passing until recently – and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I can only imagine how you must feel. I absolutely adored Chuck – he was so hilarious and such a wonderful colleague. (I was the Asst Dean of Academic Services and Registrar at WU Law.) Every time I saw or spoke with Chuck he brightened my day and made me laugh. I always wished that we both had enough time in our “real” lives to hang out. My husband, Joe, and I met you once at Dressel’s – I could see that you were also a fun-loving and exceptional person just like Chuck. I hope that you are doing well – or as well as can be expected. All my best and warmest regards, Colleen