John Henry Lee Jr. of Bradenton, FL and Brookfield, NH passed away February 10, 2009 at the age of 78.
John was born in Boston in 1930, and graduated Harvard University.
As reported on gocrimson.com, the website of Harvard University's Athletic Department: "Lee dedicated 35 years of service to the Crimson as a student-athlete, assistant coach and head coach. A 1953 graduate of Harvard, Lee was one of the most outstanding wrestlers in Harvard history. The two-time All-American and two year captain returned to his alma mater in 1956 to begin his coaching career. He was the head freshman coach and assistant varsity coach for 12 years. He succeeded his own coach, Bob Pickett, in 1968 and coached until 1986. During his 18-year tenure, Lee compiled a 165-121-5 record and coached 27 EIWA place-winners and 14 NCAA qualifiers from 1968-85. His 1981 squad still holds the program record for wins in a season with 17. In 1983, his Crimson squad finished 19th at the NCAA Championships, the third-best finish in program history. Lee was a member of the United States Olympic Committee from 1968-76 and a member of the NCAA Wrestling Coaches Association from 1978-82."
John retired in 1986 and relocated his family to Ana Maria Island, FL while returning annually to summer in Brookfield, NH. Even in retirement, John added to his multitude of athletic trophies by successfully competing in the Senior Olympics, water skiing competitions, and numerous marathons.
In recent years John's proudest accomplishment was becoming grandfather to Brendan and Brody.
John was the dear and devoted husband of Mary Lou (Clark). Beloved father of David C. Lee and his wife Mary of Barrington, NH. Brother of George Lee of FL and the late James "Lal" Lee.
John's Funeral Service was held Friday February 20, 2009 at the Kfoury Keefe Funeral Home.
Contributions in John's memory may be made to Children's Hospital P.O. Box 414421 Boston, MA 02241-4421. US Army Airborne Veteran of the Korean War.
Interment Holyhood Cemetery Brookline, MA.