Francis Paul Chartier

On May 1, Francis Paul Chartier passed away quietly in the presence of his family. Having enjoyed a long and purposeful life, may he now rest in peace.

Born on August 20, 1930 in Pelkie, Mich., the son of Alfred and Flora (Sirard) Chartier, Francis graduated from Baraga High School and then joined the U.S. Army. After serving in the Korean War, he worked in various federal government positions including the U.S. Forest Service. A job with the Bureau of Indian Affairs brought him to Lac du Flambeau Indian Reservation where he met and married Anna Maria (Corrà). Given how devoted he was to her for 53 years, one would never have known he was a longtime bachelor. Together they owned and operated a mink ranch and raised their son, Michael.

After serving in the federal government for over 30 years, Francis retired to continue the ranch and enter town government. For 26 years he served on the Lac du Flambeau town board as both a supervisor and chairman. When he finally left the board in 2011, he told The Lakeland Times, “I’ve enjoyed it very much — having the privilege and honor to serve our community for so many years … I’m leaving with a good feeling that we did accomplish quite a bit … I also enjoyed my association with the Tribal Council. They were always very kind to me. I always had their word on anything. I could always bring up any subject that had common ground for both of us.” Francis also served his community by volunteering at local nursing homes for over 25 years and at St. Anthony Catholic Church for many decades.

Well into his 80s, Francis spent winters in Europe, worked hard outdoors, and read nonfiction. He particularly enjoyed a well-earned Honor Flight to Washington. In recent years he suffered some memory loss, but he still treasured time with family and friends. Until the end he was devoted to caring for his family. Last summer he was well enough to read books to his grandchildren. Even two weeks ago, he walked outdoors and attended Mass, which represented a lifelong commitment to his Catholic faith. In his final days, he became terminally ill and was very well cared for at both Howard Young Medical Center (special thanks go to those on the third floor) and Seasons of Life (Hospice House). His wife and son thank these brave caregivers for their exceptional service. 

Francis was preceded in death by his parents, five siblings, extended family in the U.S. and Italy, and many friends. He is survived by his wife (Anna Maria Chartier), son (Michael Chartier), daughter-in-law (Yuko Nomoto), grandchildren (Emily and Leonardo Chartier), sister-in-law (Dee Dee Chartier), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorial visitation was held on Saturday, May 4, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Lac du Flambeau, followed by a Mass of Christian burial with Fr. Maria Joseph Kodiganti officiating. As per his wishes, he will be laid to eternal rest in his wife’s hometown of Smarano, Italy. A summer memorial celebration is planned with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Never Forgotten Honor Flight, which brings veterans to see the memorials that stand in their honor. His family is grateful for all the love and support they have received from those dear to Francis. Bolger Funeral Home is assisting the family, www.bolgerfuneral.com for condolences.