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Gordon Lee Obituary

Lee, Gordon C. (Gordy),

78 years old, of North Tustin, passed away at St. Joseph's Hospital after a long battle with multiple health issues, which he battled valiantly to the end. He was preceded in death by this loving wife of 55 years, Gail. Born in Randolph, Massachusetts on May 22,1933, Gordy was the ninth child of ten, and entered the work force at sixteen.

The Lee's relocated to California in 1964. In 1966, Gordy co-founded VANS Tennis Shoes with two of his childhood friends. During this period Gordy was strongly involved in many Catholic organizations. Belonging to Saint Barbara's Parish, he was on the Parish Council, Knights of Columbus, a member of The Legion of Mary and served as a Eucharistic Minister. He was very proud of his involvement in organizing the beginning of Orange County's Cursillo movement and served as their President. He also enjoyed fundraising for the Boy Scouts and was La Quinta High School Booster Club President.

After 25 years in business, with Gordy at the helm as Company President, he and his

partners sold VANS. Along with his family, he relocated to North Tustin and although retired, became more active in charitable activities. Their belief and hearts led them to many catholic philanthropic endeavors. He also ran a very successful fundraiser, Casa Teresa Golf Tournament. He and his family donated to the construction of Santa Margarita Catholic High School, the Rosary High School gym, and donating to both, Connelly and Servite High Schools. His belief in Catholic education continued and an opportunity arose in funding the building of The Gordon and Gail Lee Family Chapel on the new Mater Dei High School campus. Not only did he give financially, but also with his business success, as a leader in his parish, and growth of Cursillo he was asked to become a member of the Bishops Finance Counsel for the Diocese of Orange.The Lee's are also benefactors for Saint Joseph's hospital in Orange. After many years of philanthropic activities, Gordy and Gail were honored as the 2nd King and Queen of Catholic Charities Mardi Gras Ball. In 2010, Gordy was inducted into the Mater Dei Ring of Honor.

Gordon loved to travel and has seen many parts of the world with his family. He loved golf and was a member at both, Santa Ana Country Club and Tustin Ranch Golf Club. Nothing was more important to him than family. Survived by his five children, Debbie (Don) Hughes, Cindy Carty, Gordon(Lisa)Lee,Jr., Geoff (Leah)Lee, Jessica (John)Whitley; grandchildren, Donny (Julie) Hughes, Erin (Chip) Monaco, Mike (Jillian) Hughes, Lizzie (Darren) Boyle, Caitlin and Abigail Carty, Brianna and Ryan Lee, Alex and Christopher Lee and Emma, Grace and Kate Whitley; Great-Grandchildren, Sophia and Colin Monaco, Aidan and Brendan Hughes, Mia, Jacob, and Dallan Hughes, and Madelyn and Ella Boyle. The entire family continues to live close in North Tustin and nothing made Gordy happier than keeping up with his family. During his last bout of illness, his faith in God and love of family warmed everyone's heart.

On the east coast Gordy is also survived by his brother Arnold (Lucy), and his sister-in-law, Helen (Bob) Chisholm along with countless nieces and nephews.

The family will be forever grateful to our "extended family" of caregivers, Luz and Abner.

Rosary and Vigil will be held Tuesday, April 3rd. Viewing is from 6-7 with a vigil at 7:00pm at Mater Dei High School, Gordon and Gail Lee Family Chapel. Funeral Mass on Wednesday, April 4th, 10 a.m. at La Purisima Catholic Church, Orange. Burial to follow, Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, Orange. Brown Colonial Mortuary

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Orange County Register on Apr. 3, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Gordon Lee

Sponsored by his loving Family.

Not sure what to say?





Love, CINDY

March 30, 2025

Dad,
Each day that goes by I think (& mention) you. Each year that goes by, I realize how amazed I am as to what you were able to accomplish. Personally and professionally.
It warms my heart to read comments many have left about you. Even better are the conversations I have had with previous friends (yours and mine) and their wonderful memories. Your Legacy continues on because of your faith, loving and caring heart and history...giving...quietly even when most never knew. It´s a great way to be remembered...Who could want for more? You touched so many...especially former employees. You will always be remembered and love.
And by the way......damn... my family loves to tease me on how much I´m turning in to you! ~grin~ I´m okay with that.

Geoff

March 28, 2024

Dad- I hope you hear each though, whisper, and prayer as I think of you every day. It is a blessing being your son. Thank you for everything.

Think of you both every day. Love you.

March 28, 2019

Don & Diane Leavey

April 22, 2012

Gordy Lee-one of the finest human beings we have known. He was such a positive force and inspration in the Cursillo Movement of Orange County, Go with God!

mary kane

April 5, 2012

April 5, 2012
Bob was so proud of his special uncle. Gordie shared many of his gifts with Bob, our girls and myself. I will never forget the time he let us stay at his condo in Hilo, Hi, His great faith and love of family was a positive influence on anyone who knew him.
Until we meet again go in peace!

Mary Kane wife of Bob (Gordie's nephew)

Geoff Lee

April 4, 2012

It won't be the same without you. I keep thinking about dropping by, watching football, and talking about life, WWII, travel, and the boys. Thank you for everything you've done and give mom a big hug for me..

Patricia Hultin

April 3, 2012

Good & Faithful Servant,
Dick & I beside you & Fr Ray worked together to touch the hearts of so many Cursillistas in Orange Co. You & Dick also shared your birthdays, May 22nd. Last Year Dick spent his first birthday on his 5th day. It was the first time in many years that he didn't share a birthday phone call with you. This year you will be together again in your 5th Day. Your leadership taught me so much in my work for the Lord. We will miss you Dear Friend. Please remember us with your prayers.
Patricia Hultin

john kane

April 3, 2012

Gordy, we will miss you. Until we meet again.

Jack & Steve Kane

John Kane

April 3, 2012

Uncle Gordy was more like a big brother to me. I fondly remember time spent with him at Grandma's before he was married. After marrying Gail, the three of us would often go for a picnic or swim.
I will always be grateful for the time I had with Gordy. I am amazed at all he accomplished in his life.

Denise Willson

April 3, 2012

Dear Cindy, Abby, Lizzie and Caitlin, I remember when your Dad showed us his in home theater and how he would call every morning to check-in on all of you! What a blessing to have had him so close by you all these years. Your Dad respected life through his strong work ethic, a generosity of heart and the love of family. We send our sympathy and caring. Denise, Randy, Amelia Willson

April 3, 2012

UNCLE GORDY IM VERY SAD THAT A PERSON OF YOUR STATURE HAD TO LEAVE THIS EARTH SO SOON YOU WILL BE SADLY MISSED BY ALL OF US BACK EAST MAUREEN & RUSTY LEE

Carolee Kaufold

April 3, 2012

Meeting Debbie a few years ago, she shared loving stories about her dad. He sounded like a grand gentlenman. He is now in God special presence for all the glory Mr. Lee shared with everyone he met.

Gordon Lee Jr

April 3, 2012

Dad, I miss you terribly and it was an honor to have taken care of you these past 6 years. I'd do it all over again, no regrets.

Thank you to all of you who have left such wonderful messages in honor of our father.

Love Butch (Gordon Lee Jr.)

Pauline & Harris Guilmette

April 3, 2012

Thinking of you all and keeping you in my prayers. Heartfelt Sympathy to you all. Love, Pauline & Harris

John E. McDonald

April 3, 2012

RIP Mr. Gordon Lee.... Your legacy, and the people you touched will survive in the ones that will remain after your passing. The memories will always remain. It was an honor to have known you. . John E. McDonald ( Santa Ana , Calif)

Steve and Donna Laird

April 3, 2012

Our deepest condolences for your family's loss. Gordy was one of the nicest people we have ever known and the world was a better place for having him in it!

Arnold Lee

April 3, 2012

This candle is lit for you my Dear Brother.

Arnold Lee

April 3, 2012

We shared our childhood together. Goodbye to you Dear Brother. I will miss you so very much, until we meet again, save a place for me.
Love you,
Arnie

Jacquie Edmondson Donahue

April 3, 2012

I am sorry for your loss. He sounds like he was a wonderful father, husband and grandfather. I was a childhood friend of Godon Jr. and wanted to send love and peace to your family.
You will see him again soon in heaven.

Jacquie (Edmondson) Donahue

diane (lee) stanley

April 3, 2012

so sorry for your lose. he was a good person. i remember my uncle when i was a little girl. may the angels be with you.

Lynda House

April 3, 2012

What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. The world would be so much better if there were people like this.

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