John Cooper Lee

John C. Lee, age 70, of Farmington Hills, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, in Royal Oak, Michigan. He was born on July 13, 1955, in Hamtramck, Michigan, to the late DeWayne and the late Barbara Lee.

John was raised in Livonia and graduated from Churchill High School with the Class of 1973. Following high school, he began a career as a brick mason in the construction industry, and then a machine operator and yard man at Fendt Builders Supply, a trade he dedicated himself to for more than 30 years. He took great pride in his work and the legacy he left behind through the buildings and structures he helped create.

John's greatest adventure began on April 17, 1976, when a blind date in Mio, Michigan, introduced him to the love of his life, Debra. What started as a single evening together blossomed into a remarkable journey spanning 50 years. The couple was married on September 16, 1977, at Our Lady of Refuge Church in Commerce Township and recently celebrated 48 wonderful years of marriage together.

John and Debra made their home in Farmington Hills, where they lived for more than 35 years while raising their family. Their journey was not without heartache. They lovingly welcomed twin daughters, Heather and Jamie, who were born prematurely and sadly passed away. Through their strength and unwavering faith, they continued to build their family and were blessed with two sons, Justin and Michael.

Family meant everything to John. Although he worked hard to provide for those he loved, he always made time for them. He coached his sons’ baseball teams, spent countless hours playing catch in the backyard, and created memories that would last a lifetime. As the boys grew older, hunting trips together became treasured traditions, fueled by their shared love of the outdoors.

John enjoyed an active life and was an avid golfer and baseball player. Knowing how much he loved the game of golf, Debra surprised him with one of his favorite birthday gifts—a putting green in their backyard for his 50th birthday. He was also a devoted Detroit sports fan who faithfully cheered on the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions, with Aidan Hutchinson being one of his favorite players.

He took great pride in tending his vegetable garden, eagerly awaited the return of his hummingbirds each year, and lovingly prepared their special homemade nectar. He also discovered a love for coloring, creating beautiful works of art that reflected the quiet joy he found in life’s simple moments.

John loved spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed singing Elvis Presley songs and dancing. One of his favorite songs to sing to Debra was “The Wonder of You,” which reflected the love they shared throughout their many years together.

He was the beloved husband of Debra for 48 years. Loving father of Justin, Michael, and the late Heather and the late Jamie. Dearest grandfather of Isabella Lee and Olivia Gass. Dear brother of Tana (the late Jim) Reid, Scott Kellar, and the late Mark Lee. Brother-in-law of Linda (Dan) Renrod, the late Teresa (Rick) Hazard, the late Larry (Barb) Scheib, and the late Christine Scheib. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Visitation for John will be held on Thursday, July 9, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12½ Mile Road), Warren. Burial will take place at 11:30am on Friday, July 10, at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery in Southfield.

Please share memories of John at his guestbook below.