Gilbert Curtis Lee

Gilbert Curtis Lee, 76, of Merton, WI, passed away peacefully on Monday June 10, 2024 in the presence of his family. His battle with cancer in recent years showed his courage and strength in facing life’s challenges with a smile.

Gilbert was born on November 9th, 1947 in Catawba WI to Herbert & Althea Lee. Growing up on a farm taught him patience, resilience, and an appreciation for hard work, those traits continuing to show throughout his lifetime.

In 1974 he was married to his sweetheart Suzanne Sullivan. They built their home & family in Merton, WI.

Gil worked as a crane operator for most of his adult life. An avid outdoorsman, Gil loved hunting, fishing, and spending time at their cabin in northern Wisconsin. Gil was a gifted mechanic and welder and could often be found in his garage with various projects in the works. Gil and Sue also loved cruising around on their Harley.

Known fondly as Papa Gil to his 9 grandchildren, Gil loved nothing more than being a grandpa.

Gil is survived, loved, and deeply missed by his loving wife of 50 years, Suzanne; his children Doug (Janelle) Lee, Nick (Erin) Lee, & Erika (Ryan) Hainey; his 9 grandchildren, Madelynn, Tyler, Ava, Max, Blake, Eden, Charley, Jaxon, & Levi; siblings Dolores (Glenn) Olson, Patricia (Bryan) Olson, Robert Lee, & Sherry Dill; and many other friends and family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, beloved baby daughter, Michelle Lee, brother in-laws Glenn Olson & Bryan Olson, & nephew Clyde Olson.

A visitation to celebrate Gil’s life will be held from 1-3pm on Friday August 9th 2024 at Pagenkopf Funeral Home, 2228 N Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, with a service to follow