John T. Lee

With sadness, we announce that John Thomas Lee, 74, of Bradenton, FL passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023. Born on November 5, 1948, in Queens, NY to Emily and Bartholomew Lee (predeceased), John lived a life true to his core values.

Once a Mason, always a Mason. He enjoyed Harley Davidson motorcycles, physical fitness, mint condition antique cars, and sharing a nice glass of cabernet. For over 30 years, John sang with the acapella group Street Corner Society.

He was loved by all who were lucky enough to meet him, but most of all by his devoted wife Susanne; his son Michael; his son Joseph; his grandchildren Victoria, Ella, and Gia; his daughter-in-law Gina; and his loyal guard dog Portia. John was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy and had been an Officer of the Freemasons Sarasota Lodge No.147.

Retiring after a long career with Verizon, John has called Florida home for over 20 years and was happy to never use a snow shovel again. Nothing was more important to him than spending time with family and friends. He never met a stranger. One of the most honest, reliable, authentic, and caring men to ever grace this world, he will be deeply missed. Join us in raising a glass as we say cheers to an incredible life well lived, and show our gratitude for the love, the laughs, and the countless good times.

John is further survived by his brother Thomas Lee and family; brother-in-law Thomas Cosgrove (Catherine); sister-in-law Marilyn Svihovec (Bob); nieces Jennifer Cosgrove and Britten Hoerrner (August); nephews Bryce and Keith Svihovec; best friend and best man Tony DiZinno (Mandy); Mary Lee; and so many close friends, neighbors, colleagues, and clients. May God welcome him with open arms and the Harley and/or Porsche of his dreams and may he forever rest in peace.

A graveside service with U.S. Military and Freemason honors will be held on Friday, June 23, 2023, at 1:00 PM at the Sarasota National Cemetery located at 9810 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241. For those who wish to make a donation in honor of John’s legacy, please consider contributing to one of his favorite organizations, Shriner’s Hospitals for Children https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en.

Condolences may be directed to the following site: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/sarasota-fl/john-lee-11298672