Dr. Charles D. "Chuck" Lein

Dr. Charles D. Lein, 84, of Lafayette, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at home on March 8, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born on November 2, 1941, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Chuck met his future wife, Sue, during the State A Basketball Tournament in Rapid City while they were still in high school. They married on June 30, 1962, and shared a loving partnership that lasted more than six decades.

Chuck earned a Bachelor of Science from Augustana University in 1963, followed by a Master of Science in 1964 and a Doctor of Education in 1970 from the University of Wyoming. He built a distinguished career in higher education, serving as Dean of the College of Business at Boise State University and becoming the youngest president in the history of the University of South Dakota in 1977. In 1982, he transitioned to the corporate world as president and CEO of Landstrom’s Black Hills Gold in Rapid City, leading the company for 11 years. In 1993, he and Sue moved to Lafayette, where he joined Stuller, Inc. as president and COO until his retirement in 2009. He also served with distinction on the board of Albertson’s Inc. for 28 years.

An avid outdoorsman, Chuck traveled the world to fish and hunt big game. He remained deeply connected to his Western roots, cherishing country music, rodeos, and the Belle Fourche rodeos of South Dakota. A dedicated runner, he completed many marathons alongside Sue and their sons. In later years, he enjoyed golfing with Sue by his side, and the couple took numerous cruises together. Chuck embraced life in Louisiana, developing a genuine affection for Cajun culture and proudly serving as King alongside Sue as Queen of the Krewe Victoria.

Above all, Chuck was a man of integrity and generosity who placed his family at the center of his life. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Susan Ellen Buckingham Lein; sons Kent, Keith and his wife Lynn, Steve and his wife Paula, and Greg and his wife Nicole; nine grandchildren, Ryan, Chase, Alexis, Ethan, Nathan, Isabelle, Katie, Cooper, and Zoe; two great-granddaughters; and his siblings, Howard and Julie, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Scott Russell Lein, and his parents, Harold Donald and Willa Mae Ernst Lein.