Leonard S. Lee

Leonard S. Lee, aged 86, passed away on January 5, 2026, in Daly City, California. Born in Canton, China, Leonard was a respected member of his community and a man of deep faith and intellect.

Leonard's educational journey began at Queens College in Hong Kong and continued in the United States where he earned a BS in Chemistry and Biology from East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas, followed by an MS in Biophysical Chemistry from New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, New Mexico. His career was as diverse as it was distinguished. Leonard worked at Merck & Co. as a Research Chemist and Group Leader, which included inventorship on 7 patents. He later served as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist for Contra Costa and Santa Clara Counties and was the primary Health Inspector for Stanford University and surrounding areas until his retirement. His expertise in environmental health led him to speak at global forums about implementing best practices for food safety. A lifelong learner and educator, Leonard developed and led the first Chinese AARP Senior Driver Safety Program in the country, as well as teaching bilingual education and science at the high school level. He also held significant roles as President of the Chinese American Institute of Engineers and Scientists in San Francisco, and as Director and Co-Founder of the Pacific Rim Environmental Health Association.

Beyond his professional achievements, Leonard was one of the founding members and a long-serving Deacon at San Bruno Christian Church, where he also started their Senior Center. His commitment to his faith and community was profound and enduring.

Leonard loved reading, writing, traveling, and enjoyed all kinds of food. He was an avid fan of the SF 49ers and the Golden State Warriors. His wit, wisdom, and generosity touched many, and his unselfish, humble nature was evident in every aspect of his life.

Leonard is survived by his loving wife, Diana, his son Laurence (Linh), his daughter Janice, and his brothers Kenneth (Lydia), Daniel (Shirley), and Chak (Selma). He was preceded in death by his parents, Man Kei Lee and Wen Yei Fung Lee, and his siblings, Ju Zheng Lee, Kwok Wai Lee, and Shing Faan Lee.