Charles John Portell also known by family and friends as "Toot-Toot" was born on February 8, 1946 in Old Mines, Missouri, as one of seven children to Steven Anthony Portell and Lucille Cecillia (Bone) Portell.
After attending high school at St. Joachim, Charles joined the military in the`` U.S. Marine. Corps on February 14, 1963 and served until February 14, 1967. While in the service, Charles received the National Defense Service Medal and the Marksman Medal. He departed from the Marine’s as an E-4. On May 4, 1968, Charles married the love of his life, Phyllis A. Coleman and they shared nearly 54 years together. After his term in the Marines, Charles began a successful career with Chrysler Motor Company from 1967 until his retirement in 2007.
Charles was a lifelong parishioner of St. Joachim Catholic Church. A few of the many things Charles loved were Nascar Racing, Bowling with friends, Hunting, Golf, playing a good game of cards, watching sports, especially Cardinals Baseball and supporting local sports teams.
Above all the hobbies that Charles had and the many things he enjoyed doing, spending time with his family was his favorite. He loved his wife, sons and grandchildren. He has left a legacy that will forever be etched in their hearts.
Charles passed away on Monday, January 31, 2022 at his home having reached the age of 75 years, 11 months, and 23 days.
Those left behind to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Phyllis Portell; two sons: Scott Portell (wife, Carolyn) and Christopher M. Portell; three grandchildren: Blake Portell, Karsten Michael Portell, and Lindsey Portell; two brothers: Randy "Toog" Portell and Francis "Bunny" Portell; two sisters-in-law: Pat Bourbon & Brickey Coleman; nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents Steven and Lucille Portell; and four siblings: James Robert "Monk" Portell, Donald "Rube" Portell, Stanley "Specks" Portell and Maxine (Portell) Battreal.
A special thank you to Safe Harbor Hospice, Advantage Home Care, Pat Bourbon, Sharon Pickett, Tammy Watson, Brooke Schrum, Rhonda Bourbon, and Mary Drennen for their kind and loving care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are directed to Safe Harbor Hospice, 101 Kingsbury Blvd., Fredericktown, MO. 63645 or St. Jude Children's Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
A time of visitation will be held Sunday, February 6, 2022 from 5 to 8 PM at DeClue Funeral Home. An Elks service will be held Sunday evening at 7 PM.
Visitation will resume on Monday, February 7th from 9 to 10:30 AM at DeClue Funeral Home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, February 7, 2022 at 11 AM at St. Joachim Catholic Church with Father Tony Dattilo officiating. Interment and final prayers will follow at St. Joachim Cemetery. Charles will receive full military honors presented by the U.S. Marine Corps and VFW Post 6996.
Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.