Lesias "Lee" Castillo Tabiendo

He was born on July 31, 1934, in Anda, Pangasinan and lived a life defined by faith, perseverance, and deep pride in his Filipino heritage.

Lee immigrated to the United States in 1962 with the help and support of his soon-to-be wife, Floserpina (Flor) Tabiendo. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in love, faith, and opportunity, creating a strong foundation for future generations.

Lee dedicated many years of his professional life to Knit-Rite, Inc., a prosthetic and orthotic supply company in the Kansas City metro area, where he faithfully served as a Purchasing Agent until his retirement. He took pride in his work and was respected for his dedication, reliability, and kind spirit.

Beyond his career, Lee was an ordained minister and a devoted member of Terrace Lake United Methodist Church and the TLUMC Men’s Group in Kansas City. His faith was the foundation of his life and guided the way he treated others each day. Through quiet acts of compassion, humility, generosity, and service, Lee lived out his beliefs in a way that touched countless lives. He led not only through words, but through the kindness, grace, and steady presence he shared with everyone around him.

Above all else, Lee loved his family deeply. He found joy in every moment spent together — on fishing trips, during celebrations, watching his granddaughter’s piano and dance recitals, cruising and sharing vacations, watching his grandson's play football and baseball, and attending their high school, college and post college graduations, and simply enjoying the quiet blessings of everyday life. The birth of his first great grandson was monumental and something he was thankful for.

In July of 2023, Lee was blessed with the opportunity to return to his homeland, the Philippines, where he reconnected with his roots, embraced his culture, and joyfully celebrated his birthday among family and lifelong traditions. The trip held special meaning for him and became a cherished memory — a beautiful reminder of where he came from and the life and legacy he built through love, family, and faith.

He is survived by his children: Jonathan Tabiendo and his wife Catherine, and their daughter Jorine; Debbie Lalli and her husband Colby, along with their sons Pearce and Mason. Pearce and his wife Logan have one son, Scotty; and Mason is married to Cali and they are expecting their first child later this month.

Lee will be remembered as the kindest and most gentle man anyone could ever meet. He had a warm spirit, a generous heart, and a way of making everyone feel welcome. He also had a joyful love of food-he truly never met a meal he didn't enjoy, especially when it was shared with those he loved.

Lee’s family was the center of his world and his greatest pride, and nothing brought him more happiness than being surrounded by the people he loved most.

Lee's life was a testament to faith, family, and kindness. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131, on May 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location on May 16, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.