Robert D. Lee, 82
Daily Inter-Lake | UPDATED 1 hour, 59 minutes AGO
Robert D. Lee, 82, passed away on July 7 at Logan Medical Center surrounded by his wife Marie, his daughter Jami, son-in-law Scot, grandson Bryar and sisters in law; Nancy, Kitty and Jane.
Bob was born September 6, 1943, in Whitefish, to James and Ella Mae Lee. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Marci and his three siblings, Bill, John, and Sue.
Bob had two beautiful girls, Marci and Jami, who he cherished. Jami Johnson currently enjoys time in both Arizona and Montana, with her husband Scot. Bob married his soul mate, Marie Potter in 2003 and his family circle grew with the inclusion of his stepson, Edward Ralls, both currently living in Kalispell.
In 1998, Bob’s family grew by the addition of his son-in-law Scot Johnson, who he loved and trusted with his daughter, Jami, and again in 2018, when his daughter-in-law Suzy Buckmaster, was joined in marriage to Ed.
Bob was further blessed with five amazing grandchildren who he cherished and was so proud of: Bryar Polansky, Braedyn Polansky, Kyra Walsh, Trevor Johnson and Connor Ralls. The circle expanded again with the marriage of Kyra to Dakota in 2025.
Oh, and then there is his faithful dog Buddy, who joined the family circle in 2020 when he began ruling the roost and whose favorite spot was on Bob’s lap.
Bob loved his family, the Montana outdoors, helping others, and being involved in the community. Bob was an avid fly fisherman, and the Montana rivers were his beloved “second home”.
Bob loved to welcome the day enjoying a cup of coffee on the front porch. He would often say “Life is better on the Porch.”
Bob was an amazing craftsman. He could do wonders with a saw and sanding pad and a little varnish. Many will treasure his creative talents in the gifts that he shared.
Bob served his community for 20 years as the fire chief for the South Valley Volunteer Fire Department while operating his own construction company RD Lee Builder.
Bob will be remembered by a celebration of life on Tuesday, July 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Holt Stage Hideaway located at 2053 Holt Stage Road in Kalispell. All are welcome to gather with the family to share memories about Bob as Dad, Grandpa and friend. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.