Obituaries

Gary Byron Lee, 69

Gary Byron Lee, beloved son of God, husband, brother and friend passed away at his home in Ferndale on July 20, 2008, due to esophageal and liver cancer. A celebration of his life was held at the Swan Chapel in Swan Lake, July 26th with Pastors Curtis Wallace and Ron Pierce officiating.

Gary was born to Byron and Inez (Beck) Lee on May 26, 1939 at Havre, Montana. The family moved to Ferndale when Gary was just one month old. He graduated frm Bigfork HS in 1957, and attended NMC at Havre and UM in Missoula. He joined the U.S. Army in June, 1962 and was assigned to Warrant Officer Candidate training school at Fort Rucker, Alabama prior to his discharge in March, 1964.

He is survived by the love of his life, Betty Abell Lee, whom he married on October 20, 1967 at Elko, Nevada. They celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2007. He is also survived by his brothers Conly B. Lee and Mike (Judy) Lee of Libby, sisters Mary Lee of Polson and Janet Lee (Bob) Thomson of Great Falls, cousin Ron Higgins of Troy, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other cousins.

Gary was self-employed as a ceramic tile and terrazzo contractor, he was also a fine craftsman, building and remodeling homes in western Montana. He was an avid basketball player and fan: he also enjoyed bowling and golfed every public golf course in Montana (all 91 of them). He was a "sports fanatic" continuously supporting the Bigfork Vikings, the University of Montana Grizzlies, and the Kearny, AZ Bearcats. He was honored by the Bigfork Boosters for his loyal support in 1982 prior to a move to Missoula and was given a tribute at the 2008 High School Graduation ceremonies. He enjoyed sports of all types and kept track of his beloved teams even from a distance.

He was very involved with his church and belonged to the "Friday Dirtbags" Bible Study group in Bigfork. He and Betty lived in Ferndale most of the year but in recent years spent winters at Kearny, AZ where he volunteered in community projects, the local church and enjoyed people. Gary had the gift of "helps" and willingly lent a hand where needed.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested memorials be made to The Gideons, the Bigfork Booster Club, The Healing Room at St. Ignatius or an organization of your choice. Friends may post notes of condolences to the family at www.buffalohillfh.com. Buffalo Funeral Home caring for the family.