Daniel J Lee

Daniel Joseph Lee, 86, of Reynolds, North Dakota, passed away on October 20, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center due to complications following a heart attack.

Danny was born on July 27, 1939, at Deaconess Hospital in Grand Forks to Ole and Myrtle (Rebsch) Lee. He was baptized into Christ and confirmed at Stjordalen Lutheran Church in Reynolds, ND, where his faith was first rooted. Throughout his life, Danny remained a devoted Christian and was a faithful member of Trinity Free Lutheran Church in Grand Forks until his passing.

Danny enjoyed being a member of the Holmes Softball Team. He was a farmer near Reynolds, ND. In 1967, he married Marilyn Janzen of Hampden, ND, and together they built a life centered on faith and family. He served on the Board of Directors for the Reynolds Coop Association. After retiring from farming in 1984, Danny began working at the North Dakota State Mill in Grand Forks as a forklift operator and packer from 1985 until his retirement in 2002.

Danny continued to stay active in his retirement by assisting his son-in-law with farming until 2020, where he enjoyed getting to know the Larimore farmers. He enjoyed fishing, although he never seemed to catch anything, and woodworking. Music was always part of his life and was always heard throughout the house. He loved singing and playing guitar, firmly believing that he sounded every bit as good as The Man in Black himself. His most cherished moments were when all of his kids were home and gathered around the table.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Ole and Myrtle Lee. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Marilyn; his children Cindy (Darryl) McDonald of Larimore, ND, Lisa (Steve) Lawson of Sioux Falls, SD, Brian (Julie) Lee of Grand Forks, ND, Daniel (Laurie) Lee of Opelika, AL, and Jon Lee of Emerado, ND; and seven grandchildren: Christopher, Danica, Chase, Cameron, Skye, Gavin, and Josie. He is also survived by his sister Ruth (Dale) Christianson of Grand Forks, ND, his brother Harold (Judy) Lee of Mesa, AZ, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Danny’s legacy is one of quiet strength, steadfast faith, and unwavering love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A private family directed celebration of life service will be held.