Obituary of Robert Lee

Robert K. "Bob" Lee, 79, of Niles, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at the Merlin and Carolyn Hanson Hospice Center. Bob was born on January 19, 1936 to the late Robert C. and Ruth (Bryarly) Lee in Elkhart, Indiana. In 1954 Bob graduated from Niles High School where he wrestled, ran track and played on the football team that won the 1951 Michigan High School Football Championship and was on the 1953-1954 All Big Four Conference Football Team, where he was a tackle. On December 26, 1965, he was united in marriage to Shari (Busse) Lee at a ceremony in Niles. Bob founded Lee Construction when he was 19 years old and built homes in the Niles vicinity for over 50 years. Bob became an ordained minister at the New Apostolic Church in Niles, Michigan, and served as a pastor for nearly 45 years. During this time he helped to build many churches, including churches in Kenya, Africa, and South America. He has spent much of his later years donating his time and resources helping others in need. He enjoyed going fishing and swimming and especially loved to spend time with his grandkids and the children in church. Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ruth Lee; and a sister, Patty (Donald) Olson. He is survived by his wife, Shari; son, Christopher (Tia) Lee of Buchanan, Robin (Reza) Emami of Columbus, Ohio; three grandchildren, Brighton Lee, and Ethan and Audrey Emami. A memorial service for Bob will be held at Brown Funeral Home on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 2:30 p.m. with a time of visitation two hours prior. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Bob's name may do so to the Salvation Army located at 424 North 15th Street, Niles.