Mr. Steven Dale Lee

He was born, in Fresno, on October 19, 1954. He attended schools in Central Unified, graduating from Central High School. After graduating, Steven went to Fresno City College where he met his wife, Betty, in the Jazz Band. He played alto Saxophone, and she was the vocalist and pianist for the group. Steven and Betty married on May 1, 1976. They became parents of two children.

In September of 1975, Steven began his 38 year career at Charles McMurray, a wholesale hardware company. Steven’s beginnings were humble, getting his start in the warehouse and working his way up. Steven earned his position as Sales Manager with hard work and dedication. He organized the Hardware Trade Shows in the Central Valley. His most loved responsibility included mentoring the sales department. His dedication to the salesmen made him an excellent leader and friend too many colleagues.

Steven was an avid outdoorsman with a genuine affinity for nature. Some of life’s happiest moments were found on a deer, elk or boar hunt.

He loved music and was the envy of many on the dance floor. This led him to become a member of The Steve Gotelli Band where he entertained many behind the drum set.

“Grill Master” is part of the long list of titles Steven held. He was famous for his rib eye steaks and baby back ribs. No one ever passed up Sunday dinner at the Lee’s home. His open door policy extended to his children’s friends as well, many of whom affectionately called him “Dad” or “Papa Lee.”

Steven enriched the lives of countless children as baseball coach, mentor, teacher and friend. He was a shining example of encouragement to all he encountered.

The family would like to thank the staff and doctors at Fresno Community Regional Medical Center, and 7th floor Oncology Department. A special thank you to Jane, RN; and Dr. Abdulhaq.

He is preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Cuerino and Angie Gotelli; his grandparents, Henry and Emma Engleman.

Steven is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Betty; daughter, Sabrina Eastom and her husband Scott Eastom; son, Joshua Lee; grandson, Brody Eastom; parents, Walter and Betty Lee; sister, Chris Sjostrand and her husband Leighton; brother-in-law, Steven Gotelli and his wife Kathy; niece, Melissa Gotelli; nephew, Steven Gotelli and many loving friends.

A Funeral Service will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Saturday December 22, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Belmont Memorial Park.

Remembrances can be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 340 W. Fallbrook #101, Fresno, Ca 93711 or the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 3855 N. West #110, Fresno, Ca 93705