Ralph E. Lee, age 87 of LaPorte, IN, died Monday, November 14, 2011 at IU Health LaPorte Hospital. He was a 60 year resident of LaPorte County.
He was born April 1, 1924 in Chicago, IL., Son of the late Andrew and Gertrude Viola (Edmondson) Lee.
He was married on July 26, 1967 in LaPorte to Mary Odle who preceded him in death in 2002.
Ralph was a retired electrician and owner of Ralph Lee Nursery. He was a proud Air Force Veteran of WWII. He was the Radio Operator for the "Million Dollar Baby" B29 in the Pacific Theatre. His bravery gave us our freedom today. Ralph loved Jazz, dancing the Tango and was a patron of the Arts.
Surviving are Pamela (Richard) Sunderland of Woodland Hills, CA., Thomas (Dawn) Lee of Redding, CA., James (Nikki) Lee of Acton, CA., Jeffrey (Linda) Lee of Lubbock, TX., Donn (Sue) Odle of Goshen, IN., Linda (Bob) Nawrocki of LaPorte, IN., Stephen Odle of LaPorte, IN; 8 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; step-brother: Kenneth Williams of Three Oaks, MI; many nieces and nephews and special friends: Joyce Bancroft and Treena Price.
He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter: Tawny Lee; sister: Myrneth Williams and brother: Harold Lee.
There will be a time of visitation with the family from 10-11 A.M. on Friday, Nov 18, 2011 at First United Methodist Church.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM Friday Nov. 18, 2011 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Evan Lash officiating.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Clothesline Ministry, 1229 Michigan Ave, LaPorte, IN 46350.
Please sign the online register book at www.cutlerfuneral.com