Obituary for Lee J Morse

Lee J Morse completed his final ride on July 4th, 2023, going out with style during what would undoubtedly have been a PR addition to his full and vibrant life. Born to the late Loren and Beverly (Rush) Morse, and growing up with older sisters Brenda (Joe) Heystek and Marsha (Tom) Clark, and multiple close family members and friends, Lee learned the importance of hard work, tenacity, and creative problem-solving early, as demonstrated by the many hijinks he expertly got himself and others in and out of throughout his life. His love of laughter was only dwarfed by his love for family, including his wife Sharon, their 4 children, Lyndsey (Tristan) Ferris, Lukas (Joumanah) Morse, Laura Kate (Adam) Covey, and Logan (Megan) Morse, their 9 grandchildren, Anna, Oliver, Wyatt, Rowan, Madden, Finnley, Cody, Gatsby, and Lennon, his mother-in-law Joyce (William) Canfield, sister-in-law Diane (Mark) Rosebrough, brother-in-law Bill Canfield, multiple cousins, many nieces and nephews, and close friends including Larry and Julie Chapin. Although he mastered the art of pretending to be “a little slow”, Lee was exceptionally clever and never faced a problem he couldn’t solve, especially if it involved a 2x4, a chainsaw, duct tape, or wobulation. His many sayings were infamous, and his ability to weave a story always kept his audiences entertained. After a fulfilling career at General Motors, Lee retired and was able to pursue his passions for fishing, cycling, and being outdoors full-time. His many hours on the waters of the Grand River and in the rolling woods at the family home resulted in the creation of many adventure trails, wood sculptures, and magically moving garden gnomes and dinosaur statues; all of which he enjoyed finding with his grandkids during countless “go buggy” rides. Favorites like Gary the Sasquatch, the Car Wash, and the Spider Web never failed to entertain, especially when the “go buggy” got “stuck.” A lifelong athlete and fan of all sports, he recently embraced his love for cycling and was endlessly passionate when it came to exploring new trails and watching his favorite racers, especially those in the Le Tour de France. When it came to his family and friends, Lee was always ready for one more clever piece of advice (usually pretty darn good, even if you didn’t want to admit it), one more adventure, one more story, or one more ride. He leaves behind many loving family members and friends who will treasure the countless memories, sayings, and stories he left with them.

A celebration of life will be held for Lee on Saturday, July 29th from 1-4 pm, with a short service at 2 pm at the Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge St, Portland, Michigan. All are welcome to attend, and as Lee always wanted to convey at such an event, he would like to personally thank you for coming.

If you would like to contribute to a planned memorial park bench in Lee’s name, please send contributions to the Lehman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 500, Portland, Michigan 48875.