Robert Ezra Lee

Robert Ezra Lee, 78 of Columbia, MO passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at his home. An informal gathering of friends will take place at 1:30 pm Sunday, February 9, 2020 at New Horizons United Methodist Church, Columbia, Mo.

Bob was born December 4, 1941 in Bath NY, son of Ezra Douglas Lee & Peggy Joyce Lee. On November 30, 1990 he was united in marriage to Judith M. (Pifer) Lee.

Bob was employed with the VA medical systems in NY and Columbia where he was the Chief of Police. He served in the U.S. Navy & was deployed to desert storm. Prior to moving to MO, he served as a sheriff deputy with Steuben & Skyler counties, boat patrol, and snowmobile patrols. He also taught boating safety and snowmobile safety courses.

He was a member of the American Legion post 202 & 40/8, V292. Bob was a volunteer at the VA hospital and enjoyed collecting baseball cards, fishing, and bowling. He was both a participant and volunteer with the Show me State Games as well as the VA Golden Age games. But Bob's greatest enjoyment came from spending time with his family.

Bob is survived by his wife of 29 years, Judy; his children, Belinda Connor of NY, Rodney E. Lee of NY, Robert A. Lee of AL, Lisa Lee of MO, Norma Hickman of AL, Kimberly Pectol of MO, and Crystal Clay Hays of MO; 14 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren; and siblings, Patricia Lee of NY, Laura Giannone of NY, Jody Banach of NY, and Ronnie Banach of NY.

My dad. I always looked up to you. I cannot remember a time you didn't work. Often holding down two jobs. You taught us kids that it doesn't matter what your job is, you give it your all and take pride in what you are doing. You taught us love, forgiveness and how important it is to forgive people and make things right.

You never missed calling on holidays and birthdays. I used to enjoy calling you and telling you how much snow I have. You always said better you than me!

You have always been a tower of strength with a big heart. I am going to miss that, but I know you are always with us. As I sat with you, I was comforted in knowing you were ready. You had made peace with everyone and God. I remember you saying I am leaving soon; my work is done, and this is the end... I said oh no its not. this is just the beginning of a new adventure. I remember how you smiled and said you are so right. You were ready to go and mentioned it was time for me to travel back home as well. I said now dad, didn't you tell us kids this is home? To be comfortable and happy and know that this house is our home? He smiled. I said well dad, I am already home! Before I left, I put my head on his heart and my hand on his head. I said Daddy, I love you. He whispered, “love you.” Those were the last words I heard from him.

We didn't say goodbye, because it isn't goodbye. It’s just see you later. I know I will see him again one day. But for now, he is busy talking to our family and friends in heaven. So, See you later dad. It’s not the end. Just the beginning of a whole new life.

-Belinda Conner

We love and miss you more than words can describe. Until we meet again.

Love you to the moon and back,

-Crystal and Nicholas Hays

My dad was an AMAZING man, who had three different sets of children. There is his first: Rodney, Belinda and Robert. Then there was my sister Norma and I (whom he adopted) and then Kimberly and Crystal from his most current family. My dad loved every single one of his children.

Throughout his entire life, my dad was the picture of strength, courage and honesty, love and stability. He forever touched my heart, life and soul. His life and memory were one to be honored. I was blessed to have him as my dad.

-Lisa Lee

I cannot say goodbye to my father, he is still with me. He was more than a parent; he was my friend and so much more. He taught me the true meaning of the words: love, honor, and respect. The rewards of hard work and the joy of the great outdoors. I will carry him in my heart.

I love you dad,

-Robert Alton Lee