Jeremiah Lee, “J Lee”, beloved son, father, brother and friend passed away Friday, October 13, 2017 at the age of 42.
Jeremiah was born October 14, 1974, to Wayne and Carol Lee in Durango, Colorado. He grew up in Durango and graduated from Durango High School in 1993. While in High School he was on the wrestling team and played football. He was known for his physical strength and sports skills. He then attended Fort Lewis College on a football scholarship and he coached his final year. He graduated in 1998 and obtained his Law Enforcement Certification simultaneously; he was immediately hired by Durango Police Department as a patrolman. As part of his many duties as a police officer J Lee had the privilege to serve as a School Resource Officer. Later he obtained the rank of sergeant serving DPD for 18 years. J Lee was then hired by the La Plata County Sheriff's Office in 2015.
J Lee didn't know a stranger. He deeply loved his children and family. He spent much of his time passing on his passion for the outdoors, ranching, hunting and fishing. He coached football at Escalante Middle School for several years. The family ranch lifestyle and responsibilities shaped Jeremiah's life and taught him the principles of stewarding God's creation. He was honored with the La Plata County Cattleman's Officer of the Year Award in 2016-17. He enjoyed the art of cooking wild game that he hunted. Whether it was a barbeque at the Ranch or a family gathering, he was always there with something new.
He is survived by his children, Kaleb, Alayna, and Kelton; his mother: Carol Lee; Siblings: Tammy Bright (Russell), Shanna Davison (Bart), Jared Lee (Darci), and Josh Lee (Katie); his former spouse: Marissa; and many extended family, and close friends.
He is preceded in death by his father Wayne Lee; Grandparents: George and Gladys Lee, and Richard and Lorraine Seedroff.
Jeremiah Lee Memorial Fund has been set up for his three children at First National Bank of Durango 351 Bayfield Center Dr. or mailed to PO Box 410 Bayfield, CO 81122.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, October 29, 2017 at 3pm at the Fort Lewis College, Whalen Gymnasium, 1000 Rim Rock Drive, Durango. There will be a reception immediately to follow in Bayfield at
Pine Valley Church,1328 County Road 501, Bayfield, CO 81122.