Abel Wetmore Lee Jr.

NORTH CANAAN — Abel W. Lee Jr., 87, died peacefully on Oct. 22, 2020, at Geer Village.  

He was born Aug. 18, 1933, in Winsted to the late Agnes (Case) and Abel W. Lee Sr. and lived his entire life in Connecticut.  

As a boy, he grew up on the family farm in Oxford. 

As a young man, he moved with his parents and siblings to Lakeville and worked to help build the jersey dairy farm that his brother, John, eventually took over and ran for many years.  

During the 1950s he was drafted and served in the U.S. Army in Korea, and then returned home to the farm.

Although a bachelor, with no children of his own, he was always surrounded by family.  He was a beloved uncle to 28 nieces and nephews (and as time went on to their children also), patiently sharing with them life on the farm, a puzzle, a card game or a giant bowl of ice cream — along with some peanut butter cookies or other sweet treat. He accepted people as they were, completely nonjudgmental, but always finding the best in others. He lived his life quietly, loyal to family and friends, but always ready for a bit of fun. Abe will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

 Abel is survived by his brothers, James Lee of Little Falls, N.Y., Herbert Lee of Sharon and John Lee of Lakeville; and his sister, Louise Parenteau of Concord, N.H.  

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Ellen Mahon; and his nephews, James Lee Jr., Robert Lee and William Lee.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to his caregivers at Geer Village, where he made his home for the last four and a half years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.  A graveside service was held at Barkhamsted Center Cemetery.  

Arrangements were under the care of the Newkirk-Palmer Funeral Home in North Canaan.