William "Bill" Kenneth Lee, 87, of Spearfish, SD, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 20th at Rapid City Regional Hospital after a courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Born in Spearfish on August 17, 1937, Bill was the only child of Robert and Clarice Lee. He graduated from Spearfish High School in 1957 and began his lifelong career in forestry working at the Homestake Sawmill at just 17 years old. In 1960, he married the love of his life, Marlyn (Young) Lee of Lead, and together they raised three sons—Dan, Ken, and Todd.

Bill's work as a forester with Homestake and later Pope & Talbot was more than just a job; it was a calling. He retired in 2000 after a successful and fulfilling career spent among the trees he admired so deeply.

A man of quiet faith and deep passions, Bill found joy in nature—fishing, hunting, and camping were more than hobbies; they were how he connected with the world. His knowledge of wildlife and plants was beyond remarkable—he could name just about anything in the woods or water. After retiring, he spent countless hours gardening, crafting wood projects, and perfecting his target shooting and reloading skills with meticulous care.

Bill is survived by Marlyn, his beloved wife of 64 years; his sons Dan (Melinda) of Scottsdale, AZ, Ken (Angie) of Spearfish, and Todd (Jolynn) of Phoenix, AZ; along with seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Fider-Isburg Funeral Home, with visitation at 10:00 a.m., and service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Jim Roberts, followed by burial at Rose Hill Cemetery.