78 Years of Love, Respect & Trust
By Tracey Moro
Born in 1926 and raised in Hamtramck, Chet Leja, first met his wife, Verna, in Junior High. Verna, born in 1928, was introduced to Chet by his then girlfriend and later she took on that role. She continued as girlfriend through high school and while Chet served in the Naval Air Corps as an aerial photographer.
Once returned home from the Navy in 1947 the two married at Queen of Apostles Church in Hamtramck on May 13. They found a place close by and resided there for the next five years. In 2025, they will celebrate 78 years of marriage.
In those first years photography was Chet’s passion. After his service he went to work in his family’s studio focusing on portraiture. He later became well known in the Detroit area as one of the best in his field, returning from shows and exhibits with many ribbons and trophies. He later bought the family business outright.
Verna worked alongside Chet as a child photographer, and receptionist, later transitioning into wedding floral design at several floral shops.
“My grandfather had a few friends who lived in the St. Clair Shores area, and my mom recalls going to visit them and how much she liked the area,” said Andy Leja, youngest son of Chet and Verna. “In 1953 they bought their first house on Francis Street later moving to Roy Avenue where they lived the next 60 plus years raising us five kids. They now reside in Romeo at a senior living place.”
The Lejas raised three boys, David, Brian and Andy and two daughters, Diane and Trish. Today they have added 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren to their family.
When asked what it takes to be married almost 78 years, Chet answered without hesitation, while laughing. “First you have to be really old.” He went on to say, “as much as you love, you need to respect and trust your partner, plus listen long and hard before you reply in discussions. Have goals in life and trust in each other to take you to them.”
