Griffin, Lee (1929-2014)
GRIFFIN, GOSSMAN, SACHS, ADAMS, GILBERT, CHRISTIANSON, SHANK
Posted By: Paul Nagy (email)
Date: 8/30/2014 at 15:17:55
Lee Griffin
May 11, 1929 - July 2, 2014U.S. Veteran LEE GRIFFIN, 85, of Buffalo Center, died on Wednesday, July 02, 2014, at Mercy Medical Center – North Iowa in Mason City.
Lee Edward Griffin was born on May 11, 1929, in Blairsburg, Iowa, the third of four children to Bryan and Mary Griffin. He spent most of his childhood in Buffalo Center, graduating there in 1946. Soon afterwards, he joined the U.S. Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Johnston from 1948 to 1952 as an Electronics Technician, Third Class. He and his crew took part in the European Recovery Program, helping to rebuild and stabilize countries devastated by World War II. Ever patriotic, he joined the local VFW and Legion Club in Buffalo Center upon returning home.
After returning to Buffalo Center, Lee met Phyllis Gossman, whom he married in 1953. Subsequently, they had four children, whom they raised on their family farm outside of town. Lee and Phyllis shared thirty-eight wonderful years together before her passing in 1991. In 1993, he married Dolores Sachs. They enjoyed their retirement years together spending time with family, watching basketball, and shopping,
Still fascinated by electronics after his time in the service, Lee attended a program at DeVry University in Chicago. In his spare time, he worked at the local electronics store, Shafar Industries, and Jensvold Implement. Best of all, however, he greatly enjoyed his years as a farmer and often spent time in the fields after retiring.
Lee will be remembered for his love of candy, cars, fishing, and farming as well as for his colorful stories and jokes. He had numerous collections including guns, key chains, and toy tractors. First and foremost, however, a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather, he was a well-respected member of the community and a strong supporter of his church. He brought light into every conversation and had a lasting impact on everyone he knew.
Lee was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Griffin; his children, Steven and Maureen Griffin; his parents, Bryan and Mary Griffin; and his siblings, Ruth Adams, Kathryn Gilbert, and Ray Griffin. He is survived by his wife, Dolores Griffin; his children, Julie Christianson (Denny) and Ed Griffin (Joyce); and his step-children, Rod Sachs (Terri), Jim Sachs (Jody), David Sachs (Renae), and Darla Shank (Brandon); ten grandchildren: Jenna, Ellen, Chris, Kelsey, Justin, Jessa, Natalie, Cassidy, Brianna, and Sydney; and four great-grandchildren: Jasper, Ruby, Rockwell, and Jewell; as well as countless other relatives.
Memorial services will be held at 10:30 AM, Monday, July 7, 2014, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Buffalo Center with Pastor Judy Junkermeier officiating and with military rites by the Buffalo Center American Legion/VFW Color Guard. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church.
Copyright © 2014, Winter Funeral Home and Cremation Service
Winter Funeral Home and Cremation Service
Winnebago Obituaries maintained by Cheryl Siebrass.
WebBBS 4.33 Genealogy Modification Package by WebJourneymen