Jerry Lee

Jerry Lee

April 03, 1945 - December 09, 2025

Obituary

Jerry Lee, age 80, of Platteville, WI died Tuesday, December 9, 2025 unexpectedly at

home. Jerry was born on April 3, 1945, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of Robert and

Carol (Miller) Lee. From an early age, Jerry embraced the rhythm of farm life, working

alongside his father and developing a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He spent his

youth fishing, hunting, trapping, and learning the values of hard work and humility that

would guide him throughout his life.

 

He was a graduate from Platteville High School in 1963 and attended the University of

Wisconsin–Platteville for a year before returning home to support his family after his

father's passing. With quiet strength and unwavering dedication, he took on the

responsibility of providing for his mother and helping raise his younger brother, David—

teaching him not only the skills of the farm, but also how to enjoy the simple, rugged

pleasures of the outdoors.

 

Jerry had a lifelong love for fast-pitch softball. Known for his talent, his sportsmanship,

and the friendships he forged on countless teams, he earned the respect of many. He

remained steadfast in his faith, honoring Sunday as “the Lord's Day” and never playing

on that day, a commitment admired by teammates and opponents alike. He was also a

devoted Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan, loyally cheering them on through every

season.

 

On October 22, 1991, Jerry married the love of his life, Cathy McCoy, at the United

Methodist Church in Darlington, Wisconsin. Together, they built a life filled with

companionship and joy—fishing, working around the farm, exploring the land in their

side-by-side and simply enjoying time spent in one another's company.

 

Jerry shared a uniquely special bond with his nieces, Bekka and Emma, and his

nephew, Jason. Whether they were talking cattle, softball, dogs, or the many small

blessings of life, he nurtured a relationship with each of them that was rooted in love,

shared interests, and genuine pride.

 

He enjoyed meeting his classmates at McDonald's for breakfast or Culver's for lunch.

Jerry thought the world of his Culver's family as he went there every day for lunch.

Above all, Jerry's life was defined by his steadfast faith in God and his love for Jesus.

His quiet, steady devotion was a source of encouragement and inspiration to everyone

blessed to know him. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, loyalty, kindness, and a life

lived with purpose.

 

Jerry is survived by his brother, David (Dawn) Lee and their family, Bekka (Richard)

Martin, and their children, Isobel, Annalie, and Evelyn, Emma (Joey) Acker, and Jason

Lee. He was preceded in death by his wife, Cathy, his parents, and nieces, Mya and

Hanna Lee in 2004.

 

Funeral services will be 3:00 PM, Sunday, December 14, 2025, at the Melby Funeral

Home & Crematory in Platteville, WI. Burial will be at Hillside Cemetery at a later date.

Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until the time of the service. Online condolence can be

made at www.melbyfh.com.

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C
Caryle
Other •
I'm so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. He was one of the nicest people I've known. I waited on him frequently at culver's. He will be missed!
KB
Karla Burgstahler
Other •
My heart is broken to hear about the sudden passing of our dear friend Jerry. There are so many fond memories of him. He was always so kind, and, I would haven't say, courageous! He was so good to take a bunch of us teenager and younger people fishing. Hooks, lines, and poles all flailing around, and not one of us ever got a hook embedded into us! He probably said a prayer or two for our safety! He was always interested in the deer that was harvested, the fish that were caught, and how each of us were doing. He would text us for prayer requests that he had, and always looked out for the good of church. He was a true friend, and, we all thought so highly of him! Earth has lost "one of the good ones." However, I know that he is soaring high today! He's reunited with his beautiful wife, he's laughing with old friends who have passed on before him, his parents, and many other loved ones today. What a wonderful family reunion for Jerry, and what a wonderful Christmas season for him! He is missed so much, and, until we meet again Jerry, soar high! Sending our love and sincere condolences to Dave, Dawn, and family, and to Jason and family. Love, Karla and Steven Burgstahler
C(
CIndy Bonilla (Kephart)
Other •
I remember Jerry from the Free Methodist church. He was a faithful in coming. I still can see the seat he sat in. I have not seen him and wish I had taken time to visit. My deepest Sympathy!! His Mom was so nice. I loved the visits to the farm and I still think of the farm every time I go Platteville on Hwy 81. I remember his corvette.

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