Leland Curtis Grimes

Leland (Lee) Grimes, 78, husband of the late Carol (Mansfield) Grimes, died on April 22, 2020 from COVID-19. Born on January 9, 1942 in Los Angeles, CA, Lee was the only son of the late William and Arlyne (Butler) Grimes. Raised and educated in Hollywood, CA, he was a graduate of North Hollywood High School, Class of 1959, and then went on to receive his Bachelor's and Master's degree from San Jose State University. He enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Frankfort, Germany, which is where he also met his future wife, Carol. Upon returning from Europe, Lee and Carol were married in Ipswich, MA on January 21, 1967 in St. Joseph's Church (now Our Lady of Hope Church), and then resided in Studio City and Placentia, California, where they raised their two children until they moved back to the North Shore, and settled in Hamilton, MA for the next 42 years.

Most will remember Lee for his sense of humor, easy-going nature, and generous spirit. He began a career as a high school history teacher in his home city of Los Angeles, and despite having an eventual change in career path, he continued to be a teacher at heart. He had a passion for activism, politics and American History, and never shied away from a good debate. He was known for his "kitchen sink" omelets that would include any food left-over from the week's meals. Lee loved spicy Mexican food, listening to Bob Dylan and Kingston Trio, and watching his Boston and LA sports teams. He was also a regular voice on the sidelines of his children's sports games, and even volunteered to film the high school games and other town events for the local cable channel in Hamilton. His favorite times were spent fishing with his brother-in-law, John, in Vermont, traveling out West, and laughing with family and friends. He was loved by all who met him, and he loved everyone he met. He especially enjoyed spending time with his five granddaughters, whom he loved dearly.

Lee is survived by his son, Craig Grimes (Margaret), and daughter, Holly Shepherd (Chris); granddaughters Madeleine, Audrey, Piper, Bailey, and Coco; many nieces and nephews; and friends both far and near. He is predeceased by his wife, Carol Grimes; mother and father, Curtis and Arlyne Grimes; brother-in-law, John G. Mansfield; and his beloved dog and pal, Bowie.

A Celebration of Life will be determined at a future date.