Funeral Service for Russell Lee, 2 PM Tuesday, October 4, at Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home of Howard Lake
Russell A. Lee, age 91, passed away September 30, 2011. Russ was born on the family farm in Aneta, North Dakota, on May 24, 1920. After high school, Russ attended North Dakota State College (now Valley City State University), achieving a Degree in Education; and the University of Minnesota, where he obtained a Degree in Mortuary Science, followed by a Masters Degree in Education.
Russ served overseas for 36 consecutive months during World War II, and was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during the Battle of Monte Cassino, Italy.
Russ married Joyce Moline on August 14, 1948. They moved to Lisbon, North Dakota, where they owned their first funeral home and furniture store. Due to a bout with cancer in 1954, they were forced to sell their business. He recovered from the cancer, spent a few years in various professions (owning and operating a hardware store in Fairfax, MN, teaching high school in Michigan and Iowa) and then in 1960, purchased the funeral home and furniture store in Howard Lake, where they made their home for the rest of their lives. Other Howard Lake business ventures in which Russ was involved were income tax preparation, real estate sales and property renovation and rental. Russ was also the first Director of the Meeker-Wright Community Action Council, Inc, program.
While in Howard Lake, Russ was very involved in the community. He was instrumental in developing the nursing home and the senior citizen center. Russ also initiated the serving of coffee and donuts following the Memorial Day ceremony at the cemetery. Russ was on the school board, was a member of the Howard Lake Business Association and was on the Board of Directors of the Howard Lake Development, and was on the Board of Directors of St Mary’s Hospital in Winsted. Russ was also a long time member of Walker United Methodist Church.
Upon retirement, Russ and Joyce enjoyed travelling and wintering in Arizona, and spending time with his two grandsons.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Ruth Lee; stepfather, Andrew Hillesland; his brother Luverne Lee and sister Lois Kolstoe. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joyce Lee; daughter Patricia Lee; son Kent and his wife, Connie, and their two sons, Chris and Jon Lee. Also survived by many friends and other relatives.
Most of all, Russ was a truly wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He was a friend and a mentor. He was smart, had a sensitive heart, was always willing to help someone in trouble, and had a wonderful sense of adventure and spontaneous streak of fun. One of his favorite phrases was “Dare to Do”. He will be forever remembered for his humor, generosity, and love. Russ will be greatly missed by all who know him.
Our heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Brookridge Assisted Living for their loving care for Russ, especially during his last few days.