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LEE -- Kenneth Lee Col. It is with great sadness that the family of Colonel (ret) Kenneth H. Lee, 80, of Albuquerque, announces his passing on Sunday, April 24, 2011 of an apparent heart attack. Ken was born in Madison, Indiana to Ralph and Bessie Lee. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Jean, his daughters Tracy Lee and Kelly Lee, and his twin grandchildren; Reilly and Brady, all of Albuquerque. He is also survived by his sister, Martha Stucker of Huntsville, Alabama. Ken Lee was a respected role model of a true man of honor who faithfully served his family as a loving husband and a dedicated father and grandfather. He was also a dear friend to many in his community. Ken's sudden departure has left a huge void in the lives of the family and friends who cherished and loved him so very much. While growing up in the small town of Madison, Ken enjoyed basketball, competitive diving, and the thrill of fast cars. Ken's need for speed' led him into a life long distinguished career as a United States Air Force fighter pilot where he earned his wings as an Air Force Master Aviator. He had begun his career in July 1947 as a corporal in the U.S. Army Air Corps and would eventually rise to the rank of Colonel. Ken proudly served his country as a career officer for 30 years and was quickly identified as a leader serving as a Flight commander, Squadron commander and deputy Wing commander flying the F-86, F-102 and F-4 fighter aircraft. He flew multiple combat tours in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars as well as a combat tour during the Cuban missile crisis. Ken's valor in combat would earn him the highest honor bestowed upon a military pilot; two separate awards of The Distinguished Flying Cross. He was also awarded the following distinguished service awards; The Meritorious Service Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster, The Air Medal with 12 Oak Leaf Clusters, The Air Force Commendation Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster, The Air Force Outstanding Unit award with 6 oak leaf clusters, The Combat Readiness Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster, The Army Good Conduct Medal, The National Defense Service Medal with 1 bronze star, The Korean Service Medal, The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, The Vietnam Service Medal with 2 bronze stars, and The Air Force Longevity Service Award with 5 oak leaf clusters. Additionally, he was a lifetime member of the River Rats' Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association. Ken also received a personal letter from President Gerald R. Ford in recognition of his visit to Ken's unit while was he stationed at Elmendorf, AFB in Alaska. Upon his military retirement, Ken obtained a degree in accounting and worked for Treider and company, CPA. Ken had a sincere passion for golf which had him on the course with his friends at least three times a week throughout his life in Albuquerque. An active member of Four Hills Country Club, he also enjoyed playing bridge regularly with his wife, Jean and their friends which lead to him recently obtaining his Life Master's Certificate for outstanding achievement in competition. A celebration of Ken's life will be held Saturday, April 30, 2011, 2:00 p.m., at French - Lomas Chapel. Memorial donations may be made to the Disable American Veterans Charitable Service Trust 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY 41076 (WWW.CST.DAV.ORG). Please visit our online guestbook for Ken at RememberTheirStory.com FRENCH 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 275-3500
        Published on: Thu April 28, 2011