Lee Stirling

In Loving Memory of Lee Thomas Stirling
February 11, 1957 – October 8, 2025
Lee Thomas Stirling, 68, of Gardner, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at St. Mary's Campus, Mayo Hospital, surrounded by love and laughter - just as he lived.
Born on February 11, 1957, in Gardner, ND, Lee was the fourth of six children born to Donald "Mac" Stirling and Irene Marie (Goeser) Stirling. He was preceded in death by both his parents, who instilled in him a strong sense of integrity, humor, and perseverance. Growing up on the family farm, Lee learned early the value of hard work, loyalty, and lending a hand - lessons that shaped his character and guided him throughout life.
For many years, Lee owned and operated Advantage Printing, before joining his sister Bette at 1st Impressions and later worked at John Deere. In more recent years, he returned to the family farm, where his hands were always busy, his spirit grounded, and his door open to family and friends alike.
Above all else, Lee's greatest joy was his family. He was a proud and devoted father to his daughter Morgan (Shane) - the light of his life - and an adoring grandfather to Olivia Leigh, who brought him endless pride and joy. Lee never missed a chance to cheer from the sidelines, whether it was a school game, a performance, or one of life's everyday victories.
Lee is survived by his daughter and granddaughter, as well as his beloved siblings: Harold (Carissa), Robert (Pam), Bette (Keith), Duane, and Lori (Arthur) and many nieces and nephews. Together they share countless memories of laughter, teasing, and the unshakable bond that comes from a lifetime of shared roots and stories.
In recent years, Lee embraced a new chapter, spending part of his winters in Florida and enjoying sunshine, good company, and new adventures. Even during his time in the ICU, his mischievous sense of humor never dimmed. Known affectionately by the staff as "trouble," he filled the halls with laughter - talking sports, pulling pranks, and reminding everyone that joy could be found even in the hardest moments.
In keeping with his lifelong generosity and compassion, Lee chose to be an organ and tissue donor. Through this final act of kindness, he continues to give the gift of life and healing to others - a lasting reflection of the love and selflessness that defined him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at West Funeral Home in West Fargo on October 21st, from 5–7 p.m., with shared stories beginning at 6 p.m., as family and friends gather to honor Lee's humor, warmth, and the love he shared so freely.
Lee's legacy lives on through his family, his stories, and the laughter he inspired in everyone lucky enough to know him. His heart may have finally rested, but his spirit will forever be the heartbeat of those he loved most.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Rural Cass County Food Bank or the End of Watch Foundation of Milton, Florida.
West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center
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