Walter Sidney (Sid) Lee

Walter Sidney Lee—Sid to most of us—was born in Long Beach, California, on October 29, 1944, the son of Walter and Bonnie Lee. A few years later, little sister Sylvia was born. The family moved to Bellflower, where Sid graduated from Bellflower High School and went on to Long Beach State, where he studied engineering. Sid dedicated more than 30 years to the City of Downey, working his way up through engineering roles and retiring as a Senior Code Enforcement Officer.

It was during his time at the City that Sid met Cynthia—Cindi—a fellow city employee who would become his partner in life and in love. They married on March 20, 1993, and eventually settled in Huntington Beach. One of their greatest shared adventures was traveling to Russia—twice—to adopt their children, Alexander (Sasha) and Larisa. That journey changed their lives, and the birth of their grandchildren brought even more joy and purpose.

Sid passed away on March 31 at the age of 80. Though we grieve his absence, we celebrate a life rich in meaning.

Sid was a man of quiet strength, deep curiosity, and a rich inner world. He loved flying kites, watching eagles soar, and painting scenes of nature. He listened to classical music, Navajo flute melodies, and peaceful songs of Enya. He nurtured bonsai trees and blooming plants and enjoyed biking and hiking in nature.

He collected more than coins, stamps, marbles, and insulators—he collected moments. He was a lover of books, mysteries and science fiction, Sherlock Holmes, Star Trek and Star Wars. He enjoyed building train sets, visiting Alaska and the Redwoods, cruising, golfing, and the simple joy of feeding birds, especially the hummingbirds who visited his feeders like old friends.

Sid helped raise his granddaughter Ella, with whom he shared a very special bond. She was the apple of his eye: sometimes driving him a little crazy, but always lighting up his world. Together, they shared countless milestones—her first steps and words, swimming lessons, trips to the ocean and parks, visits to Build-A-Bear and Chuck E. Cheese, and a deep love for all things art.

He didn’t speak loudly, but his life spoke volumes. He taught us to pay attention—to the birds, the wind, the music, and to one another.

Sid is survived by his wife of 32 years, Cindi; his children Sasha (Devin), Larisa, and Daphne; and his grandchildren, Rowen, Ella, and Chelsea (William); his sister Sylvia Wood; nephew Nathan (Beth) Wood and family; and niece Melissa (Michael) Cumbie and family.