Charles LeBlond mostly referred as (Charles “Charlie” J. LeBlond) passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, April 3, 2023, at the age of 90, following a brave and determined 10-month fight against pancreatic cancer (cause of death). His final moments were spent in comfort and surrounded by love, marking the end of a life defined by dedication, family, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of living.
Who was Charles LeBlond
Charles LeBlond was born on February 17, 1933, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the fourth of five children born to Richard E. and Mildred Z. LeBlond, growing up in a close-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, humility, and integrity. He received his early education at the Cincinnati Country Day School, where he developed a lifelong love of learning and a sense of responsibility to his community.
After graduating from high school, Charles LeBlond pursued higher education at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. There, he earned his degree in economics in 1955, laying the foundation for a long and successful career in the manufacturing industry. Upon returning to Cincinnati, he joined the family business, LeBlond Machine Tool Company—later known as LeBlond Makino. He began his career modestly, sweeping floors in the stockroom, a humble start that reflected his grounded character and strong work ethic. Over time, through commitment and a deep understanding of the business, Charlie rose through the ranks to serve as Treasurer of the company, a role in which he helped guide the company through decades of change and innovation.
Glimpse of Charles LeBlond’s life
One of Charles LeBlond’s deepest lifelong connections was to Les Cheneaux Islands, a picturesque chain of islands off the eastern coast of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Starting at the age of four, he spent part of every summer there—a tradition that became central to his identity. The islands served as his personal haven, a place where he enjoyed fishing, sailing, boating, and building lifelong friendships. Charles LeBlond embraced the motto, “time wasted at the lake is time well spent,” and truly lived by it. He was also a devoted member of the Les Cheneaux Club and served as its president for two years, contributing to the stewardship of a place he deeply loved.
Charles LeBlond also had a deep appreciation for music, especially jazz, which played a significant role throughout his life. His passion for music began during his college years in Providence, where he had the rare pleasure of getting to know legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong, who frequently visited the city with his band during the early 1950s. This early connection to the jazz scene blossomed into a lifelong love of Dixieland jazz, and together with his wife, Barbara, Charles LeBlond followed jazz bands throughout the United States and Europe, making music a core part of their shared journey.
Charles LeBlond’s Family
Charles LeBlond is survived by his beloved wife of more than 40 years, Barbara Huenefeld LeBlond, whose partnership and companionship enriched every chapter of his life. He also leaves behind a large and loving family, including his children: Charles LeBlond, Jr., William (Tammi) LeBlond, Geoffrey (Cynthia) LeBlond, James (Jeanne) LeBlond, David (Kara) Valz, and Kimberly (Marc) Stappaerts. He was a proud grandfather to Katherine (Michael) LeBlond-Suever, James (Nicole) LeBlond, Jr., Claire LeBlond, Beau LeBlond, Avery Valz, and Alex Valz. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Sophia LeBlond-Suever, Hazel Suever, Eleanor Suever, Riley LeBlond, and Liam LeBlond. Charlie also cherished his long-time friendship with Dr. Richard Glaser, who remained a close confidant and companion through the years.
Charles LeBlond’s Memorial
Following a private family service, Charlie will be laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio, a peaceful resting place among generations of family. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to causes close to Charlie’s heart: The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, honoring his passion for music, and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, reflecting his love of nature and wildlife.
Charlie LeBlond will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments and leadership, but also for the warmth, kindness, and joy he brought to everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the music he loved, and the family who will carry his memory forward with pride and love.