John Kaysiu Lee, 61, of Des Moines, Iowa, was born on January 9, 1963, in Hong Kong, China, to Frank Fun-Nam and Mee Jane (Leong) Lee. At the age of seven, he moved with his parents, older brother Kenny, and twin sister Sue to Des Moines, where they made their home.
John was a proud Roosevelt Roughrider and Iowa State Cyclone, embodying the values of loyalty and hard work. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Iowa State University, where he was also a cherished member of the Delta Chi fraternity. It was during these formative years that John built the foundation of the life he would go on to live—a life filled with dedication, laughter, and love.
On May 6, 1989, John married the love of his life, Jolie Gearhart, of Newton, Iowa. Their marriage was a true partnership, spanning 35 wonderful years, filled with countless memories, shared joys, and a deep, unwavering love. Together, they raised two children, Nicholas and Hannah, whom John cherished with all his heart. His family was the center of his world, and he dedicated his life to ensuring their happiness and well-being.
John’s career was marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence. He spent 32 years at Principal Financial Group, where he was respected for his diligence and expertise. He later brought his talents to Wells Fargo before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and integrity.
Throughout his adulthood, John also worked tirelessly at his family's Chinese restaurant, Rice Bowl, on weekends, dedicating countless hours to helping his parents and older brother. The restaurant was a labor of love and a cornerstone of their family life, and John’s work there was a testament to his remarkable commitment to family and his incredible work ethic.
Away from work, John was a man of many passions. He never missed a moment to support his children, faithfully attending their sporting events and cheering them on. He was a “loyal son, forever true”, never missing a Cyclone football or basketball game, sharing in the triumphs and heartbreaks with his fellow fans. John’s pride in his home was evident in his meticulously maintained lawn, and he found joy in his search for the perfect car, with a particular fondness for his BMW Z4 convertible that he acquired and enjoyed over the past few years.
John was not only hardworking but also a man of humor and warmth. Those closest to him knew him as a source of laughter that could light up any room. His playful spirit and gentle heart will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
John was a devoted member of The Bridge Reformed Church in Johnston, IA, where he found strength and trust in the Lord. John’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and endearing dedication. He leaves behind a world that is better for having had him in it.
John went home to his heavenly Father on Sunday morning, September 1st, in the comfort of his earthly home, surrounded by his family.
Those left to honor John’s memory include his wife, Jolie; his son, Nicholas (Hannah) Lee of Plymouth, MN; his daughter, Hannah (Brett) Metzger of Columbia, MO; his father, Frank Lee of Des Moines, IA; his brother, Kenneth (Deanne) Lee of Waukee, IA; his mother-in-law, Dena Gearhart of Newton, IA; his brothers-in-law, Paul Norman of Weston, MO and Matthew Gearhart of Adel, IA; his uncle Jimmy (Donola) Leong of Iowa City, IA; his nephews: Jacob (Savannah) Lee, Jason Lee, Trevor Gearhart, and Landon Gearhart; his nieces: Jenna Lee, Emily Norman, Victoria (Carter) Bloomquist, and Emily (Chad) Benedict.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mee Jane Lee; his sister, Susan Yu-Yee Norman; his father-in-law, Marvin Gearhart; and his brother-in-law, Darren Gearhart.
A celebration of John’s life will be held on Friday, September 6th with a visitation from 12:30-2:30 p.m. with service to follow at The Bridge Reformed Church in Johnston, IA. Please go here to watch the livestream of the Celebration of Life: https://vimeo.com/1007099432
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Mission Cancer + Blood, in John's memory John Stoddard Cancer Center. The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Joshua Lukenbill and DNP Julie Shryock for their exceptional care and support.
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