Ernest Richard Lee, age 89, of Ellendale, passed peacefully in the loving presence of his family July 11. Ernie was received in death by those who preceded him including his wife Margaret, son Eugene, brothers Clarence, Kenneth, and Harry and sister Alice and Leroy Pope. Survivors include daughter Patricia Lee and son Richard Lee (Dorothy), brother Russell Lee (Genelle), and grandchildren Dawn Ziegler (Brad), Brian Lee (Jennifer), Lori Pope (Greg), and great-grandchildren: Jereme, Chelsea, and Zachary Pope; Nickolas and Jeremy Lee; and Kiersten and Brennan Ziegler. He will be deeply missed by his dear friend Lillian Knudson and by his friends at Ellendale Square Apartments.

Ernie was an optimist who loved nature and animals, tending his garden or fishing with his old cane pole. He loved cats and took in many strays. He had a passion for politics and the underdog. He was a prolific writer and photographer who chronicled his experiences throughout his life. He was a regular contributor to the Ellendale Eagle Newspaper, in it’s column &uot;Down Memory Lane.&uot; Ernie was a consistent and rewarding presence in our lives. In death, the reward is his but the loss is ours, and we’ll all miss him.

A memorial service will be held at the First Lutheran Church of Ellendale at 11 a.m. July 30, followed by a luncheon at the church. Following the church services please join with us in celebrating Ernie’s life at the Ellendale Square Community Room.