C. Melvin “Mel” Lee, 86, a four-year resident of Olympia, died of cancer Saturday, May 27, 1995, in Mother Joseph Care Center, Olympia.
He was born Nov. 15, 1908, to William and Geneva (Hodges) Lee in Ellensburg, where he graduated from Ellensburg High School.
Mr. Lee graduated from Washington State University with a bachelor’s degree in education. He married Claudia (Swenson) Lee on April 3, 1947 in Seattle.
Mr. Lee was in the Army from 1943 to 1946, serving in the Philippines and the United States. Mr. Lee taught and coached athletics for several schools in Washington. He was superintendent of public education in Manson, Chelan County and the Boisfort School District. He later worked for Boeing until his retirement.
He was interested in sports, especially baseball and the Seattle Mariners. After graduating from college he had played semi professional baseball in Eastern Washington. He also enjoyed traveling.
Besides his wife, Claudia, of Olympia, Mr. Lee is survived by a stepdaughter, Rosemary Hortin, Lacey; three grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.
A memorial service for Mr. Lee will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, June 2, in Mother Joseph Center, Olympia. Dr. Larry Specter will officiate. Interment will be in Ellensburg [IOOF].
The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Mother Joseph Care Center, Olympia. Arrangements are by Mills and Mills Funeral Directors, Olympia.
Contributed by: Shelli Steedman