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WILLIAM LEE Obituary

WILLIAM Y.S. LEE William Yau Sung Lee, 89, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2023, under hospice care in Liliha. He was born in Honolulu, then raised by the Goo family in Kalihiwai, Kaua'i, until relocating to 'Iolani School in the 9th grade with help from Episcopal priests who spotted his potential. After working himself through high school, he joined the U.S. Army and proudly served with a cartography unit in the Panama Canal. He later earned his bachelor's degree at Mt. Union College via the G.I. Bill, then returned to Honolulu where he met his loving wife, Florence. Together they built a family and home during 59 years of marriage, treasuring every moment and wonderful meals with their son, daughters, and grandkids. In 1963, Bill began a 40-year career as an administrator and teacher at 'Iolani, most notably as "Mr. Lee", the beloved Dean of Students. Grateful alumni and colleagues praised his strong commitment to building character and academic excellence, his hard work, the educational travel tours he led, and always being there with genuine care for others especially at their lowest points. Although Alzheimer's and the pandemic kept him from connecting with his huge network of friends and loved ones in recent years, reminiscing with photos and family remained joyful for Bill. He will be fondly remembered and is deeply missed. In addition to Florence, Bill is survived by son Paul (Holly); daughters Monica Ward and Lisa Simon (Scott); grandchildren: Davis & Courtney Lee, Kiana & Shayla Ward, and Jarin & Teah Simon. The family thanks his compassionate healthcare providers and caregivers. Memorial Service: Monday, August 7, 2023, at 'Iolani School, St. Alban's Chapel. Visitation at 4:00 p.m., Service at 5:00 p.m., reception to follow. Parking in Kamoku St. structure and baseball field via La'au St. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to 'Iolani's William Y.S. Lee '53 Scholarship Endowment. Mahalo to Nu'uanu Memorial Park & Mortuary and 'Iolani School for their support and arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Star-Advertiser on Jul. 30, 2023.

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