Patrick Joseph Lee

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Patrick “Pat” or “Paddy” Lee, who departed this life on January 14, 2026.

Paddy’s story began in a small village in the west of Ireland, where he was born and raised. At just 16 years old, in 1962, he bravely set out on his own for a new life, traveling alone from Ireland to the United States. He first arrived in New York, where his unmistakable Irish brogue soon mingled with a New York accent—making his voice, much like the man himself, unforgettable. A large man with an even larger heart, Paddy’s journey eventually took him from New York to Chicago, and finally west to Washington State, fulfilling his dream of seeing the “wild west.” There, he found his calling as a logger and built a life grounded in hard work, adventure, and community. 

An avid fisherman, Paddy felt most at home near the water. Whether casting a line into the ocean, a quiet lake, or a winding river, fishing brought him both peace and purpose. He also loved food—truly loved it. Paddy took great joy in cooking and even greater joy in eating, and he firmly believed that a good meal, shared with others, could fix just about anything. No one ever left his table hungry, and seconds were never optional.

Paddy was known for his quick wit and warm, easy humor. He had a rare gift for storytelling, and no matter how difficult a memory might be, he had a way of polishing a story—brushing past the rough parts and leaving listeners laughing instead. If a tale could be improved with a grin, a shrug, or a well-timed joke, Paddy knew exactly how to do it. 

Paddy is survived by his brother Mairtin and his wife Bernie; Noreen, widow of his brother Tommy; his sister Mary; his significant other of 30 years, Susan; and his daughter Terri and her husband Lin; dozens of nephews and nieces; and his Grandchildren Aaron and Ray. All will forever treasure the memories shared, the stories told, and the meals enjoyed. Paddy’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. 

In keeping with Paddy’s wishes, his ashes will return home to Ireland with his brother and sister, bringing him back at last to the land where his story began.