Leila D. (Thiel) Charais, 90, passed away peacefully at her home Sunday, December 15, 2013, in Fort Wayne. Born December 21, 1922 in Edgerton, OH, she was the daughter of the late Albert G. Thiel and Marjorie F. Warner. After graduating from Hicksville High School she attended Heim Beauty College in Gary Indiana. Upon graduation from college she worked in her Aunt Bea''s beauty shop in Gary eventually buying the shop with Charlotte Charais. She worked there until her marriage to Donald V. Charais June 15, 1944.
Her love of sewing was brought forth in her many prized quilts and pillows which were handed down to family and friends. Her appreciation for the beauty of nature was manifested in her love of butterflies and nurturing the many beautiful flowers in her garden. She was a member of St. Patrick''s Catholic Church for over 50 years. "She was dedicated to her family and friends. She was known for her selfless behavior and ability to always put others'' needs ahead of her own, especially family. She was always quick with a smile and an encouraging word. She will be terribly missed."

Surviving are children; Phillip L. (Cynthia) Charais of Fort Wayne, IN, Dawn C. (Michael) Warnement of Bay City, MI, Anita L. (Terry) McCutcheon, Irene D. (Michael) Harris, Barbara L. Charais, Teresa A. Charais, Cecile E. Charais, Christopher D. (Laura) Charais of Fort Wayne IN; a brother Kenneth L. (Barbara) Thiel of Hicksville, OH; a sister-in-law Juanita Roth of Monticello, IN; 21 Grandchildren and 27 Great Grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husband of 67 years Donald V. Charais; a brother Deloy M. (Shirley)Thiel, a sister Letha M. (David) Pressler, and a sister-in-law Charlotte (J. I.) Bird.

Mass of Christian Burial is 11 a.m. Saturday, December 21, 2013, at St. Patrick''s Catholic Church, 2120 South Harrison Ave., Fort Wayne, IN with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, December 20, 2013 at Covington Funeral Home 8408 Covington Rd., Fort Wayne, IN. Burial in Covington Memorial Gardens, 8408 Covington Rd., Fort Wayne, IN. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Heartland Hospice, American Heart Association or St. Patrick''s Catholic Church.