Lee Alfred Desmarais

November 12, 1949 – May 2, 2021

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Lee Alfred Desmarais of Ashcroft B.C., after a lengthy battle with multiple illnesses.

Lee is survived by his loving wife Sandra, his three daughters Serena (Emerson), Meredith (Rob), Theresa, his two grandchildren Roan and Charing, his brother Michael (Dona) & family, and his beloved pets, Winston and Posie. Lee is predeceased by his father, Wilfred, and mother, Betty.

Born in Vancouver B.C. at Grace Hospital, Lee started out small (at 4 lbs!) but became a big man in many ways, to many people. A resident of Vancouver, Burns Lake, Williams Lake, Lytton, and Ashcroft, there was no possible way to have lived in a community with Lee and not know him. His wife and daughters have always been more commonly known as “Lee Desmarais’ Daughters, and Lee’s Wife” than by their first names. His generosity knew no bounds, and there was never something that he wasn’t involved in.

Over his years, he served as an Ashcroft Village Councillor, worked for the Department of Forestry, Department of Highways, BC Ambulance Service, and the School District. He was an Auctioneer, MC, and he had his own rafting company, Nikaia River Holidays in Lytton during the 80’s. He ran Jade Springs Restaurant, was the leader of many a fine Pig Roast, and who could forget his famous concession business at all the local events. But perhaps his most memorable endeavour was his many years as our very own ‘Big Man in Red”.

Some of Lee’s greatest memories involved the water. He always loved camping and rafting trips that centered around his beloved BC lakes, rivers and oceans; The Nahatlatch, Vancouver Island, Kootenays, Okanagan, as well as his vacation of a lifetime to Prince Edward Island.

There will be no formal service at Lee’s request, but we will have a Memorial BBQ for friends and family when it is safe to do so.

We would like to thank our many friends and family members who have supported us over the years, especially as Lee’s health declined. Your friendship and love have been and will always remain a source of joy and comfort to us all. Thank you.