Wendy Lee

Obituary of Wendy Lee

Wendy Lee passed away peacefully due to natural causes on Friday, January 23, 2026, in Joliet, Illinois. Born on March 19, 1943 in China, Wendy's journey led her to touch countless lives with her warmth, generosity, and selflessness.

Wendy's life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and dedication to her loved ones. She is survived by her loving husband, Que Lee; devoted son, Marlon Lee (Dawn Kemp), as well as two sisters, Ng Chung Ling (Kirk Moye) and Ng Ying Ling (Bill Yu), and a brother, Ng Shek Ling (Hung Hoi). Her legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren, Stefan and Autumn Lee (Mike Dertz), who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Wendy was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Catherine Lee; her dear mother, Choi Soo Gene and father, Ng Ying Sing, as well as her brother, Ng Hong Ling.

After emigrating from China, Wendy quickly became a pillar of her community in Joliet. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she established and operated the Golden Butterfly, a restaurant that became a local favorite for its delicious food and warm atmosphere. Wendy and Que then opened Wendy Lee's Restaurant in Plainfield, IL, where she continued to welcome patrons with open arms. Her delicious dishes are still remembered by the community today. Her work later continued as a Table Games Dealer at Empress Casino where she forged many life-long friendships, sharing her joyous personality with everyone she encountered.

Wendy was known as a "casino queen," affectionately called "Wicked Wendy" after one of her favorite slots. She relished her trips to the casino with her son and granddaughter, and daughter-in-law, where her infectious laughter could be heard a mile away and dancing would ensue with every bonus.

In the kitchen, Wendy's hands worked magic, especially when she cooked with her grandson, Stefan, passing on her expertise and cherished family recipes, like her famous egg rolls and wontons.

Those who knew Wendy will remember her as the epitome of love, selflessness, and generosity. Her unwavering commitment to her family and her ability to bring people together over a meal or a story will be deeply missed. Wendy's legacy is not only in the family she built and nurtured, but also in the countless lives she enriched through her kindness.

As we bid farewell to Wendy Lee, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and the indelible mark she has left on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will be cherished and honored, as her spirit continues to inspire us to embrace life with the same passion and love that she exemplified every day. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.