Yong Do Lee

After the 1945 independence of Korea from Japan, the family returned to Seoul Korea. Shortly after, on June 25, 1950 the Korean War started. She enlisted and was assigned the military medical training in Sam San-Myun, Ganghwa-Gun, Gyunggi-Do. Graduating with honors, and eventually promoted to Captain. Once transferred to Pusan military base she was involved in a severe transport accident. Unfortunately, she was told due to her internal injuries that she would be unable to conceive. She spent the following year learning to walk and function normally. After returning to duty, she met Chan Hyi Lee who later became her husband on November 27, 1966, and then became a mother to two sons, Jae Yong Lee (1968) and Jae Soung Lee (1970).

In July of 1973 the family immigrated to the United States. After landing in Hawaii and then spending some time in California, they settled down in Chicago. Once she learned that her medical degrees would not transfer over to the states she embarked on a new career. She became a self-taught chef and restaurant owner, starting one of the first Korean restaurants in Chicago. For the next 40+ years she worked tirelessly, providing a loving home and education for her two sons. She was able to help her brothers and sisters immigrate to the states and start their new lives.

Then in 2003 she was diagnosed with colon cancer. After a few surgeries and chemo she was in remission. But again, the cancer returned and spread. 5 more years of chemotherapy ensued. She never gave up, always fighting and staying positive. Traveling and doing all the things she wished during this time. Her wish was to spend her last days at home with family and friends instead of any hospital or medical facility, where too much time was already spent. She passed away peacefully on November 13th, 2014 at 6:15pm with her husband, two sons and two daughter in-laws, and three grandchildren at her side.

My mother was the most amazing person I have ever met and probably will ever meet. She was the matriarch of the family, helping and counseling all seeking advice, even during her later days from bed. Never complaining about her situation but staying positive and strong and happy that she could do some good.

I loved her with all my heart and will truly miss her. She will always be in my heart.

In God's care,

Jae and Jae Soung