Charles Basil Lennahan

Charles Basil Lennahan was born in Washington, D.C. in 1937 to Charles M. and Cravella Lennahan. He grew up in Arlington, Virginia, and spent his teenage years rowing on the Potomac River with his high school’s varsity crew team. Upon graduation he attended Rutgers University where he majored in geology. After receiving his B.A. in 1959, Charles enlisted in the Army and primarily served at Fort Knox in Kentucky. Knowing he wanted to continue his education but unsure of whether to pursue an advanced degree in geology or study law, Charles took a job as a general factotum with a law firm in Washington, D.C. In 1961 Charles enrolled in the Washington College of Law at American University, where he edited the law review. 

Charles’s first job after law school was at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he met Rebecca Cassity, his wife. They married in 1967 after six months of dating. The couple moved to Colorado in 1968 so he could pursue his interest in natural resources law. 

Charles worked as an attorney for the state department of social services and represented the state board in a case before the U.S. Supreme Court. He returned to federal service in the Office of the General Counsel of the Department of Agriculture. His primary client was the U.S. Forest Service, and he devoted much of his time to helping that agency accommodate new environmental laws. He retired in 1997. 

Charles loved reading, woodworking, travel, and spending time with friends, his dog Dusty, and most of all his family. Charles and Becky have two daughters, Claire and Debbie. 

Charles was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Rebecca; two daughters, Claire Muller (Daniel) and Debbie Smith (Tracy); three grandchildren, Maryellen Ampersand (Quentin), Owen Hinken, and Andy Smith; and his sister, Ann Powers (Joe). 

Charles had a witty sense of humor and a genuine love of learning. Charles was an endless source of knowledge. For things he knew little about he dove in headfirst to learn more. Whether it was how to build a bookshelf or which car to buy, Charles was always available to talk things through and offer advice. He believed that from every mistake, you learn something new. 

Charles Lennahan will be missed by many people, and for many reasons. Charles cared deeply about the people around him and greatly impacted their lives. Charles had a talent for making people feel special and important. By selflessly supporting and encouraging his family, friends, and colleagues, he helped them overcome challenges and achieve outstanding things. Charles was always in your corner. Charles was your biggest fan. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Humane Colorado (formerly the Dumb Friends League), an organization Charles wholeheartedly supported, and which assisted in placing cherished pets in his home. 

A private reception is scheduled. Please contact a member of the family for information.