James Chongjae Lee

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Lee (Lee Chong Jae), a beacon of strength, humor, and boundless generosity. Born on September 19, 1944 to Edward Lee (Lee Byong Sung) and Anna Lee (Cho Woo Kyung), James was the first born of four children (siblings Judy Lee, Jack Lee and John Lee) in Seoul, South Korea and the oldest grandchild of both families. James left us on March 18, 2025, leaving a legacy worth remembering in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He passed peacefully in his home surrounded by family and love.

James is survived by his wife of almost 53 years, Sandy Lee (Chung Kyung Sook), loving daughter, Amy Boles (Lee Hye Mi), devoted son-in-law Jason Boles, and beloved granddaughters Grace (Eun Hye) and Rebecca (Bo Ram) Boles who, like the rest of us, will miss his infectious smile and wise counsel. He joins his son Joe (Lee Jong Hwa), who passed in 1988 from cancer, in his afterlife. Though our hearts are overwhelmed with sadness, we draw comfort from the fact that his spirit lives on in his family and the countless lives he touched.

A memorial service to celebrate James's well-lived life will be held on April 2, 2025, starting with a viewing for family at 3:00 and then a public service beginning at 4:00 PM at Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary. It will be an occasion of recollection, remembrance, and a memorial of the extraordinary person that James was.

James's personality was one people were easily drawn to. He was known for his generosity, his sense of humor, his industrious nature, his likability, and his capable resolve. He taught us the value of hard work, the importance of self-respect, the necessity of always doing our best, the power of positivity, and the importance of a smile.

He was a proud graduate of Yang Chung High School (양정고등학교), class of 1964, in Seoul, South Korea and continued to be an active alumnus. Yangchung High School is one of the oldest secondary schools of South Korea. Throughout his lifetime, bonds with high school friends remained a constant and true source of camaraderie for James.

Among his many accomplishments, James immigrated to a new country in 1972 and successfully built a life for himself and his family. He graduated with a bachelor's degree from the University of San Francisco while supporting his family and sponsored many family members in their pursuits of the American Dream.

He was happiest when with friends and family, sharing abundant food and drink. Gatherings at local parks and beaches with Korean barbecue, fried chicken and plenty of soju were a favorite way to spend a weekend. James enjoyed traveling with his wife and family. He spent many summers on the coasts of Baja California and loved watching, poolside, while his granddaughters swam the day away. James was an avid golfer, hardly missed a KBS Korean News segment and loved watching music variety shows. James's legacy is one of sheer determination, unending love for his family, and a staunch belief in the power of education and work ethic. He leaves behind a roadmap for us on how to live life with perseverance, dignity, and a healthy dose of humor. His life and lessons will continue to inspire us, and his indomitable spirit will be missed dearly.