Robert Edward Lee "Bob"

Robert Edward Lee "Bob", 89, of Morganton, North Carolina passed away on September 12, 2023.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine Elizabeth “Gerry” Lee; mother, Mary McGrath Lee; father, Cornelius Joseph Lee.

Bob is survived by his son, Dennis Lee (Patricia) of Morganton, NC, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, niece and nephews.

Bob and Gerry, as they were known to friends and family, met in Chicago, Illinois and enjoyed 55 years of marriage. Bob was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1952, he joined the United States Army and was deployed to frontline duty during the Korean War.

Following his return home and discharge from active duty, he began a multi-decade career specializing in industrial boiler and machinery insurance brokerage. He worked with clients spanning an array of industries and traveled extensively both domestically and internationally. Bob embraced "The Job", as he called it, always embracing the adventure and challenge of assisting his clients and colleagues. After a successful work career, he and Gerry retired to South Harwich, Massachusetts on their beloved "Cape Cod." There, he and Gerry became active members of Christ Church Episcopal, participated in local, state and federal political campaigns and regularly enjoyed social gatherings with friends. He also pursued additional life interests including workouts at the local health club, reading and, of course, time in the sun.

He was a pet enthusiast enjoying the company of various cats throughout his life ("Lucky," "PG," and "Simon" to name a few) In 2004, Bob and Gerry relocated to Morganton NC to be close to family. Here he enjoyed his role as "Papa" to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He continued his weekly fitness routine until his health declined. A creature of habit, his daily schedule included a visit to his personal library (Gerry called it "the cellar") to read, enjoy a cigar and partake in the occasional cold "PBR" or latest seltzer. As a lifelong reader, he amassed a collection of more than 3000 books with particular focus on WWII, Korea and Vietnam eras. He enjoyed his regular lunch sessions with close friends and continued his own personal journey of faith as a member of Grace Episcopal Church.

Throughout these years, he and Gerry shared their unique bond of love, friendship and true partnership which began at their first moment together so many years before. Bob, "Papa" and "Dad" is remembered for his outwardly confident and commanding personality but also for the care, humor and compassion he shared more discreetly with those he loved during the most important and challenging moments of life.

A joint service in remembrance of the lives of Bob and Gerry will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 23, 2023 at Grace Episcopal Church in Morganton, NC with the Rev. Mashall Jolly officiating.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.