of Spofford, New Hampshire, passed away Thursday morning, April 26, 2024, in his home residence. He was 73. Lee was born in Burlington, Vermont on December 11, 1950. He was raised in Springfield, Vermont and graduated from Springfield High in 1968. Shortly after graduating high school, Lee joined the Navy. He served our country four years and was stationed in Newport, Rhode Island.
While serving in the Navy, he met Carol A. Collins in Boston, Massachusetts. They married in June 1975 and moved to Keene, New Hampshire, where they built a life together and raised three daughters. Lee lived his life by teaching his daughters that family comes first. Those lessons extended to the community and being a good neighbor. Whether it was a flood, snow storm or a chimney fire, Lee ensured his family was safe and then would head out into the neighborhood to see how he could help.
After retiring from the Navy, Lee made a living as a machinist at Kingsbury where he met several of his life-long friends. Lee decided to make a career change in 1991 when he joined the formerly known R.S. Roberts Inc. in Brattleboro to sell cars. Lee enjoyed finding a good deal for people, so they could meet their budget and have a safe, reliable car. Lee’s reputation spread quickly as individuals from surrounding counties and states would seek him out to purchase a vehicle. Lee retired from Honda of Keene in 2006.
Lee’s passion in life was golfing, which he was able to do up until 2020. When he couldn’t physically golf anymore, he was still out on the green with his friends and daughters, driving the cart and giving free golf lessons.
In a time of complicated friendships and relationships, Lee kept it straightforward and simple. “It’s all about the laughs”, he’d say. Lee was loyal, funny and always had the next line ready. Even in his older state, he had a boyhood charm and wit that will live on in the hearts of his daughters and friends. Lee was loved dearly and will be very missed.
Lee is survived by his three daughters, Kathryn Ross, Julie Ryan (and her husband Daniel Ryan) and Christine Ross, who all live in Jacksonville, Florida, as well as his dear friend, Nancy Turgeon, who resides in Spofford. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Ross (Collins) in 2013. There will not be a public memorial service, only a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Salvation Army in Lee’s name. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.
