On the morning of December 13th 2023, Donald Grant Lee of Sandy, Utah passed away peacefully in his sleep, with his wife by his side, of heart complications at IMC Hospital in Murray, Utah.
Don was born July 16th, 1940 in Provo, Utah. Son of Harold Willey and Rachael Low Lee. Don served a mission in France at the age of 19. He was a graduate of Brigham Young High with the class of 1958 and from Brigham Young University with a Masters of Communications and French. During his college years he served in the Army as a cook and he also danced with the BYU folk dancers. After graduation Don married Merilyn Christensen in 1968 in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. They moved to Vernal, Utah for one year while he taught Jr High School, then moved to Murray, Utah where he built their first home. Merilyn ran a Montessori School in the lower level of the home while Don taught all aspects of Art, and assisted in many other assignments at Granger High School in West Valley City, Utah for 30 years. During this time he designed and built their second home in Sandy, Utah where they raised their family. He was a devoted member of the LDS church and was active in church callings and Temple work. He also enjoyed singing in the church choir.
He served a second mission with his wife Merilyn in West Jordan, Utah teaching English to the Spanish speaking community. He also worked in the Draper Temple as an assistant coordinator in the baptistry for six years.
Memorable family trips brought joy into Don's life, filled with four-wheeling adventures, skiing, and river rafting. A true-blue BYU football enthusiast, Don's genuine passion for the games was evident especially when attending with his wife, children and grandchildren. Upon retiring Don and his wife Merilyn enjoyed traveling abroad visting many countries. Don was a skilled craftsman and an artist. Don also found fulfillment in ongoing projects and personally handled all repairs and renovations to both of their properties. His most recent endeavor for the past year was completely remodeling their Murray property.
He was a loving father, grandfather, and brother survived by his wife: two children Debbie Lee (Kelsie Self) of Murray, Utah, Brian (Crystal) Lee of Layton, Utah, five grandchildren, Jordan(Lindy), Brannon and Easton Williams, Dante and Allric Lee, Siblings Ted (Kristine) Lee, Leonard (Kerry Lynn) Lee, Linda (Kim) Orton. He was also adored by his 4 Great-Grandchildren Paisley, Gracie, Anthony, and Lainey Williams.
Funeral Services will be held Wednesday 12/27/23 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM in the Windy Peak Ward, Silver Ridge Building, 11350 S 1300 E, Sandy UT, 84094. A viewing will be held before the services from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM.
Graveside Services will be from approximately 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Provo City Cemetery, 610 S State St Provo, UT 84606.
Dinner for family and friends will be held back at the Windy Peak Ward, Silver Ridge Building, 11350 S 1300 E, Sandy UT, 84094 at 4:00PM.
For those unable to attend the service in person, the family invites you to join via Zoom, at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86346831042
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your father, he was a nice man. I know that this is a hard time for you and hope you can find comfort and peace as you reflect on his life. Sending love your way…
Seems we are having a rash of siblings and cousins passing.
Don was a great cousin and will be missed at family reunions.
Our heart felt condolences as those who are left do all those things that must be done.
Phill & Jan
My heartfelt condolences to Merilyn and the family as you mourn the loss of your husband, father, and grandfather.
Memories of family gatherings and visiting with Uncle Don fill my mind. I will miss his quiet mannerisms and heartwarming smile. I appreciate the support he always gave me throughout my life. I remember adventurous river trips with him as our guide, highlights of my youth. One holiday season, he picked me and Britany up from the bus stop in Salt Lake City and drove us to Grandma Leone's house, a kind service. He always took an interest in the things I was doing and came to support my family for baby blessings, mission farewells, wedding receptions and more. I am in awe of the things he accomplished, his many talents and expertise. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Merilyn, Debbie, and Brian, as well as all of our family. I look forward to the day we will be with Uncle Don again.
