Fredrick "Fred" D. Lee

Fredrick “Fred” D. Lee
“Papa”

Fredrick “Fred” D. Lee, 82, passed away on July 17, 2026 at the Des Moines VA Medical Center CLC.

Fredrick was born in Des Moines, Iowa to parents, Patrick Thomas and Margaret “Maxine” (Frazier) Lee. He was the middle of five children. Jim, Carol, Richard and Steve Lee. He graduated from Valley High School in 1964. Fred then served in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1969 on the USS Topeka as a Gunner’s Mate. Throughout his life he was always proud of his service to his country. Fred always stopped to shake another service members hand and he displayed the American Flag with great pride.

Fred married Linda Ayres, having three boys of his own Paul, Scott and Todd Lee. He later retired from Wesley Acres as a maintenance professional.

Fred enjoyed upholstery work, wood working, classic car rebuilding, fishing, golfing, bowling and cooking. For the last 10 years, he struggled with dementia and all that went with it. Fred is now free from this disease and able to rest.

Those left to cherish his memory are his three sons; two daughters-in-law, Michelle Lee and Blythe Lee; his four grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as “Papa”, Sebastian, Colton, Katelyn and Joshua; and his brother, Steve Lee. Papa will always be remembered for his dance moves, love for snickerdoodle cookies and his love for his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents Patrick and Maxine and his siblings, Jim, Richard and Carol.

The family will greet friends on Sunday, July 26, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street in Des Moines. A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 27th at 10:00 a.m. at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway in West Des Moines. Fredrick will be laid to rest with military honors on Monday at 12:30 p.m. at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the VA Medical Center CLC, the Iowa Veterans Cemetery or the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in loving memory of Fred.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the wonderful CLC staff for their dedication and the loving and dignified care they provided "Papa". Also, for their kindness, support and guidance provided to them over the past several months.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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