Wendell LeRoy Lee, 85, Nevada, MO, passed away at his home on Saturday, July 18, 2026. He was born March 29, 1941, in Butler, MO, to Walter A. and Margaret Marie (Prier) Lee.
Wendell graduated from Appleton City High School in 1959. Following high school, he served in the United States Marine Corp while stationed in San Diego, CA. Wendell was employed for a time at Maxwell Highway Super Market, then worked at the MoDOT Project Office for several years. A farmer at heart and a steward of the land, Wendell actively engaged in full time farming in1976 and continued to farm and grow crops until his retirement in the fall 2025 at the age of 84. In his early years, he enjoyed bird hunting and deer hunting, as well as other outdoor sport hunting. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Wendell was member of the First Baptist Church in Nevada.
Survivors include his son Mark Alan Lee (Thersea Michelle), Nevada; two grandchildren, Kevin Lee (Katelyn), Basehor, KS, and Scott Alan Lee (Emily), Deerfield, MO; four great-grandchildren, Rhett, Hazel, Carson, and Corynn; a brother, Dale A. Lee (Linda) of Moundville, MO; and a niece, Michelle Monnig, Liberty, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Beverly Oelsen.
The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Graveside services will follow in Newton Burial Park (11:00 a.m.) with Dr. Kevin Daugherty officiating.
Memorials are suggested in his name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital c/o Ferry Funeral Home.
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