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.