John Edward Lee Jr.

John Edward Lee, age 95, died peacefully on September 9, 2023 surrounded by his family. He was the second oldest of 8 children. He was born to John and Clora Lee on November 26, 1927 in Idaho. He spent his childhood in Utah, Arizona and New Mexico working on the family farm. He joined the US Navy in 1946 where he served on the USS Elkhorn as a Gunner’s Mate. After his Naval service, he worked several jobs including a fire spotter in New Mexico for the US Forest Service. He went on to complete his Carpenter’s Apprenticeship in 1955.

He moved to Rangely, Colorado where he met his wife, Margaret. They were married in Rangely on January 25, 1964. They had 3 children. The family of 5 moved to Grand Junction, Colorado in 1969. John went to work as a carpenter. He was a long-time employee of Phipps-Newell Construction.

John was a loving husband and father.  He loved music. He could play almost any instrument by ear. He enjoyed playing his harmonica for friends, family and his dogs, who would “sing” along. He could also play the guitar, banjo and fiddle. He was a devout Catholic and active member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. He also frequently visited the Monastery in Huntsville, Utah. He also loved animals, especially his beloved Bassett Hound, Sam. He enjoyed spending time in nature with his family, playing Pinochle and having coffee with friends.

John is survived by his wife, Margaret and Daughter, Susan Fulton (Dennis) of Grand Junction, CO., his Son, Michael Lee (Suzanne) and Granddaughter Shannon Lee of Fort Collins, CO., His Granddaughter, Natasha Lee (Alexander Losada) of Winter Park FL., and sister, Dorothy Stockemer of Cedaredge, CO. He is preceded in death by his son, David Lee.

A funeral Mass will be held in Grand Junction, CO. on October 4, 2023 at 11:00 am at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 790 26 ½ rd. A short graveside service will follow at 12:30 pm at Cemetery in Orchard Mesa, 2620 Legacy Way. The reception will be held at 1:00 pm at the Eagles Lodge, 1674 US-50.