Lyman 'Lee' R. Parish, 76

After a long, courageous battle with cancer, Lyman "Lee" R. Parish passed away peacefully at his home Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008.

Lee was born July 9, 1931, in Fond du Lac, Wis., to Frank and Catherine (Kohlman) Parish, and attended high school there. At age 17, Lee joined the U.S. Air Force and retired after 20 years. During his Air Force years, Lee was stationed in Lakeside.

Upon retirement, Lee moved to Littleton, Colo., and subsequently moved to Harrison, Mo., Fond du Lac and Parachute, Colo. He never lost his love of Montana and, in 1993, Lee and his wife, Dagmar, returned to live in Evergreen. He remained there until his death.

Lee was a master sergeant in the Air Force and, upon retirement, used his fix-it skills as an appliance specialist with Sears.

A lifelong learner, Lee loved the art of debate, and discovering and using new technology.

He also relished spoiling whatever beloved dog was part of the household.

While living in Fond du Lac, Lee took tremendous pleasure and pride in caring for his grand-niece, Lisa Hjelle, and particularly enjoyed watching her grow into a young woman.

He is survived by his wife, Dagmar Parish; sons, Bruce Parish of Kalispell, and Glen Parish of Fond du Lac; daughters, Jean Edmondson of Kalispell, and Carolyn Parish of Fond du Lac; special nephew, Marvin Brittenham, of Parker, Colo.; 12 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Family services will be held at a later time.