7/9/1921 – 1/22/2024
Harry Lee: A Life of Service, Kindness, and Community
Today, 1/22/24, the community of Colusa County mourns the loss of one of its most esteemed members, Harry Lee of Rocklin, who passed away this morning at a VA retirement facility in Placerville at the age of 102. Harry, a beacon of kindness and dedication, was a long-time resident and a prominent figure in the area, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his unwavering service to the community.
Harry, along with his late brother David, was at the helm of several successful ventures, including Barney’s Casino in South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Lee Brothers Land Leveling and Diamond Lee Ranch. Their entrepreneurial efforts extended to various enterprises in Maxwell and Colusa County, marking their names as synonymous with local business and community development.
The void left by Harry’s departure extends beyond his immediate family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marla, and is survived by his loving daughter, Marcia, of Rocklin; his son, Ron, of Dixon; and his grandsons, Ethan and Conner, of Woodland. His sister, Mary Louie, continues to reside in Maxwell, along with his devoted friend, Allen Beck, who provided unwavering support and care to Harry over the years.
Harry’s life was a testament to service and bravery. At the age of 21, he was drafted into the U.S. infantry and displayed remarkable leadership and courage, swiftly rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. His valor in the Philippines during World War II earned him the prestigious Bronze Star—a symbol of his heroism and selflessness, traits that he carried throughout his life.
July would have marked Harry’s 103rd year, a milestone reflective of a life rich in experience and contributions. More than his age, it was his gentle, kind nature and community-oriented mindset that set him apart. Harry’s commitment to public service was evident through his roles as Board Member of the Glenn-Colusa Irrigation District, Maxwell’s fire commissioner, President of the Maxwell school board, member of the Masonic Lodge, and his appointment by President Richard Nixon to the U.S. Agriculture Committee.
His legacy is not merely in the businesses he ran or the accolades he received but in the lives he touched, the community he nurtured, and the family he cherished. Harry was more than a successful businessman; he was a pillar of the community, a devoted family man, and a proud patriot.
As we bid Harry farewell, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, service, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good. His gentle presence and kind spirit will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Harry Lee, a true gentleman and a community stalwart, leaves behind a lasting imprint on the hearts and lives of many. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his story continue to inspire acts of kindness and service for generations to come.