John Walter Lee

Our strong, funny, devoted Dad, John Walter Lee passed away on March 19, 2025 at the age of 89.

Dad was born and raised in Denver, Colorado. After graduating high school, he enrolled in Colorado State College of Education looking to become a math teacher and baseball coach. However, after seeing the movie "Bridges at Toko-Ri" and watching the Navy Blue Angels perform in Denver, flying was it.

Dad entered Naval pilot training in Kingsville, Texas. While in training, he met and married his sweetheart "Dee", Jane DeAnn Williams. In 1957 they moved to Naval Air Station Oceana, where dad piloted F-9F and A4D aircraft, serving on the Intrepid Aircraft Carrier.

Dad and Mom made several moves over the years ..... Denver, Beeville, Hawaii, Buffalo, Hurst, and finally to Roanoke, Texas. Dad was a Naval instructor pilot in Beeville and served in Air/Sea Rescue/Nuclear Weapons Readiness in Hawaii (with a side job flying freight for Hawaiian Sea Frontiers). After serving in the Navy, he became a commercial airline pilot and enjoyed a 29 year career with American Airlines.

Dad also found time to go back to school and earn a degree in accounting from the University of North Texas, 1979.

After retirement, Dad enjoyed golf and loved traveling with friends.

As a dad to 3 kids, he coached all of us in either baseball or softball. He always had time to make wishes come true - whether it be a Cuda, horses, or motorcycles. Dad was also "Papa" to seven grandkids and was so proud of each and everyone of them. Granny and Papa's house was always a fun place to be. Family was important to Dad and that included our small extended family - Ed, Charlene, Pudd'n and Nancy. He treasured the memories.

Just prior to Mom's passing in 2023, he and Mom celebrated 66 years of marriage. She was the love of his life and he missed her with all his heart.

Our beloved Dad - son, husband, brother-in-law, papa, uncle, father-in-law, friend, ice cream lover - will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

Dad is survived by sons Rusty (Trish) and Chuck (Pam), daughter Darcy (Mark), grandchildren Hunter, Jody, Chase, Chandler, Paige, Gracie and Audrey; nieces Charlene and Nancy