Ronald Patrick Lee, 81, of Chadds Ford, PA and Lewes, DE passed away June 20, 2024 at home surrounded by his family. He was the beloved husband of Rita Lee (Friel) for 55 years and was the son of the late Francis X and Valorie Lee. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Jennifer Lee, Michael (Tish), Brian (Holly) and Meghan Lee. Also survived by his precious grandchildren: Matt, Savannah, Gavin, Mac, Arden, Reese, Austin, and River. His sister Valorie McLaughlin also survives him. He was predeceased by his sister, Maureen McGovern and brother, Francis X Lee.
Born in Chester, PA, he later grew up in Wallingford. He was a graduate of Archmere Academy ‘61 and Mt St Mary’s University ‘65. Ron started his career in Public Accounting then on to the family Vending business until he started his own Vending Company where he worked even into his 80’s alongside his two sons. He was involved in the National Board of the Vending Industry and later got his Real Estate License. Ron also became a Volunteer Fire Fighter while living in Springfield, PA. Ron was a 25 year member of St Joseph on the Brandywine Parish.
He was a very generous person who supported numerous charities and made many efforts to help the less fortunate. He also gave of his time to assist family members with doing their taxes, investments, and anonymous favors-like plowing neighbors’ driveways.
He enjoyed years of playing tennis with friends and made two White Water Rafting trips in Idaho with friends. Ron was a huge fan of the Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers.
“Pop Pop” was there as much as possible for his grandkids’ games of Baseball, Football, Basketball, LAX, Field Hockey, swim meets and Plays.
Ron’s “second home” was in Lewes, De, where, as a child, he spent every summer. Then, he later brought his own family to spend countless happy times boating, water skiing, on wave runners, fishing, crabbing, relaxing, and doing his favorite pastime- lighting fireworks. No one could match his dry, witty sense of humor. In Lewes he was an officer of the Pilot Point HOA for 35 years.
Ron enjoyed traveling, especially on the Viking Cruises.
Ron lost his parents at a young age and Family was a huge focus the rest of his life. He would do anything for them and was their Patriarch. He bravely battled Cancer for 3 years with much family support. In the end Willow Tree Hospice in Kennett was our guiding light. His humble demeanor is a legacy to his whole family.
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