Retired firefighter, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son and brother

Kevin S. Lee died September 15 at 61 years of age due to complications from knee replacement surgery.

Kevin was born May 4, 1959 to Claire and Bob Lee, who moved their young family to Claremont in 1964. He attended Condit Elementary, El Roble Intermediate and Claremont High schools.

His passion for helping others led him to the California Fire Academy, from where he graduated as a firefighter in 1987. He was stationed in Laguna Beach and truly loved serving his community, proudly fighting to save homes in the 1993 Laguna Beach fires. With deep respect for all members in his profession, he was honored to take part in the 9/11 memorial events in New York City.

Following his retirement in 2003 he transitioned to leading facilities management in the family business, which he did until his passing.

In 1989 Mr. Lee met the love of his life, Laurie Lawrenz. They were married August 24, 1991. Together they raised six children and held great pride in each of their accomplishments. He took great joy in living life to the fullest and loved to surprise his family with trips to Disneyland and sporting events as well as being a hands-on dad with all of his kids’ school events.

In recent years the couple treasured the joy of family by spending time with their seven grandchildren.

He was a lifelong adventurer and outdoorsman, spending time at the family home in Idaho fishing, backroad riding, shooting, hunting and being in nature. He was also a certified scuba instructor, and his sense of adventure led him to dive with great white sharks off the coast of Mexico. Most recently he and his wife traveled to Antarctica, fulfilling a lifelong dream of exploring all seven continents.

Mr. Lee is survived by his wife, Laurie Lee; children Tara Giangiordano, Heather McClung, Chase McClung, Kayley Follmer, Jared Lee and Travis Lee; parents Claire and Bob Lee; brother Steve Lee and sister Camille Lee. He will be dearly missed by all.

A private family ceremony to honor Kevin Lee’s life will be held in October. Due to COVID restrictions, a memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Kevin Lee to the Grossman Burn Foundation at www.grossmanburnfoundation.com.