Richard John Lee

Richard John (Dick) Lee of Farmington, Minnesota passed away with his family by his side on March 18, 2025, at the age of 77. He was born on November 27, 1947 in Austin, Minnesota.

Dick worked as an airline mechanic for Northwest Airlines his whole career. As a hobby, he worked on and repaired clocks.

Dick was actively involved in Flying D Saddle Club and Orchard Rangers Saddle Club. He also helped out with the 4H horse program and was active on the Eureka Township Board of Directors.

Richard was preceded in death by his father, Merrill F. Lee; mother, Louise (Kennedy) Lee. He is survived by his loving wife, Helen (Schmidt) Lee; three children, Jeff and Julie Lee, Jennifer and Jason Douglas, John and Amy Lee; eight grandchildren, Jacob (Caitlyn), Grant, Gabe (Morgan), Michael (Karsyn), Gavin, Samuel, Clara, Alexander; sister, Judith McGrogan; niece, Dawn Banks (Kerry); three great grandchildren, Breckan, Brooks and Hadley; as well as other relatives and friends.

There was nothing more important to Dick than his family. Marrying Helen Schmidt, his high school sweetheart, they had three children, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Dick enjoyed camping, horses, trail riding, cooking over the open fire, and sitting around the campfire with family and friends. He also enjoyed anything that had to do with his grandchildren. Whether it be a hockey game, basketball game or even a dance recital, he was there. Dick was always working on something either in his clock shop or out in his garage.

The family would like to thank Apple Valley Care Center and the Grace Hospice team for the care and compassion they showed Dick in his final days.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Farmington, MN on Friday, April 25th, 2025 at 11:00am. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00am. Interment to follow at Farmington Cemetery.

There will be a lunch in the church dining hall after the interment and then more visiting at Celt’s in downtown Farmington after the lunch.