Yee Gin Lee

Life didn't start easy for Lee. When he was still an infant his father left for the United States to find work to support Lee's mother and older sister.

Lee was the man of the family at an early age. He took care of his mother and sister during World War II when the Japanese invaded China.

Lee later went on to attend and graduate from the National Taiwan University in Taipei, earning a bachelor's degree in economics and law.

He worked as a columnist for "China Weekly" magazine in Hong Kong.

In his spare time, he enjoyed acting in plays.

He also played the harmonica.

Through friends at a drama club, he met Vivienne Chiu, who later became his wife.

The couple immigrated to the United States, settled in San Francisco and got married at City Hall.

Starting over in a new country was a challenge Lee met head on--he worked hard to succeed.

Lee attended college to study computer science while working various jobs including bus boy at Lefty O'Doul's.

Lee and his wife had three children: daughter Amber followed by two sons: Bennett and Conant.

After getting his degree in computer science, Lee worked for former U.S. presidential candidate and Texas billionaire Ross Perot at Electronic Data System as an analyst.

When that company relocated out of state, Lee went to work for the U.S Postal Service also as a computer analyst before retiring at age 65.

For much of his adult life, Lee loved volunteering to serve the Bay Area Chinese community.

Charming and charismatic, Lee made many friends with his ready smile, easy laughter and a gift for conversation.

He had a way of making those around him feel special.

His motto was to treat everyone the same-with respect: from restaurant workers to community leaders and high ranking government officials.

In 2007, during an election held in Los Angeles, Lee was voted National Grand President of the Lee's Family Association.

In 2010, he was elevated to the position of National Advisor.

Lee was also editor of the quarterly newsletter for the Lee's Family Association.

But his proudest accomplishments were his children, grandchildren, and his long loving relationship with his wife who was his soul mate and best friend for almost six decades.

81 year old Lee passed away on May 24, 2015 with his wife and family by his side.

Lee's larger than life personality and keen sense of humor will forever remain in the hearts of those who love him.