Stephen M. Lee

Stephen "Steve" M. Lee, 77, died on June 1, 2025, at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, surrounded by his family. He was born on March 24, 1948, in Council Grove to John and Rose (Wodke) Lee.

He graduated from Wilsey High School in 1966. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force, where he served six years in various parts of Texas and Okinawa, Japan. Following his discharge, he held various jobs before spending almost 30 years working for the Army Corps of Engineers, where he "retired" in December of 2010. Following that, he still mowed for the Corps.

A sports enthusiast, Steve played many sports starting in grade school and on, as well as coaching and following his children and grandchildren over the years. He was also a fan of the Kansas City Royals and a K-State season ticket holder. An avid golfer (and bowler), he served on the board at Council Grove Country Club. Steve was also a member of the local American Legion Post.

Steve married his wife Karen S. (Francis) Lee on June 10, 1967. They met when Steve moved from Delavan to Wilsey, and were friends who began dating before Steve's senior year of high school. Nearly 58 years of marriage led to two children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Steve is survived by his wife Karen, of Council Grove, along with children Stephanie (Vance) Voth of Hutchinson, KS and Chad (Juilee Tschirhart) Lee of Overland Park, KS; grandchildren Mason (Bailey) Voth, Macie (Reese Youngwirth) Lee, Matthew Voth, Brandon Lee and Bryant Voth; great-grandchildren Elliot and Hattie; siblings Rex (Peggy) Lee, Mason (Lisa) Lee, Ruth (Galen) Chizek and Hope (Chuck) Davis; and by many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Frank Lee, and nephews, Darrin Lee and Mitchell Day.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00am, Tuesday, June 10th, at Council Grove United Methodist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Morris County Hunter Education, to help with youth outdoor programs.