Michael Paul Lee

Michael Paul Lee, known by many names-Mickey, Mick, Lieutenant Lee, Bishop Lee, Grandpa Mike, and Dad-was a kind-hearted, thoughtful man who lifted those around him with his humor, wisdom, and unwavering kindness.
Born June 17, 1944, in San Francisco, CA, to John (Jack) and Kathleen (Kay) Lee, Mike was the eldest of four brothers. He grew up in the Bay Area, learning the value of hard work and service from his father, a WWII veteran and firefighter. His love of dancing, laughter, and helping others shaped his life.
Mike joined the U.S. Coast Guard in 1964, fulfilling a childhood dream. While stationed in Oregon, he met the love of his life, Tamy Lee Busk. They married in 1965 and built a beautiful life together, raising three children-Debbie, Greg, and Daniel-as they moved across the Western U.S. throughout his service. After a distinguished career, he retired in 1991 as a Lieutenant, a remarkable achievement for an enlisted sailor
Faith played a guiding role in Mike's life. Raised in a devout Irish Catholic home, he converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1970. He served in numerous leadership roles, working tirelessly to support youth and fellow members. Mike and Tamy later fulfilled a lifelong dream of serving as missionaries in Ireland and as temple workers in Reno.
After Tamy's passing in 2013, Mike found love again with Irene Butler, marrying in 2014. Together, they continued a life of service, helping refugees and mentoring those in need. Mike loved travel, ice cream, chocolate chip cookies, and sharing his awe of the world's beauty-whether in a sunset, a historic building, or a moment of quiet service.
Even after his Alzheimer's diagnosis, Mike's kindness, humor, and love for others never wavered. With Irene's devoted care, he remained at home until his peaceful passing on February 22, 2025.
Mike is survived by his wife, Irene; brothers John (Carmen) and Timothy Lee; children Debbie (Jeff Warner), Greg, and Daniel (Sue Lee); stepchildren Lisa Palmer (Terry), Jeffrey Moser (Marie), Chad Moser (Mandy), and Marci Young (Lock); 9 grandchildren, 10 step-grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Tamy, and brother Bartley.
Mike's life was defined by love, laughter, and service. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and devotion that will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at Larkin Mortuary - Riverton (3688 W 12600 S Riverton, UT 84065) at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow at Glenwood City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Coast Guard Foundation.