Lee Stephen Littlefield

Lee Stephen Littlefield A gentle soul, his story once and again, must be told A teacher of life, his lessons are to be shared A man of integrity, his example is to be emulated An advocate for others, his voice will never be silenced A faithful friend, his memory will be engraved in hearts A family man, his hospitality will be a cherished heirloom A wise father, grandfather and uncle, his love is his legacy A loving husband, his tenderness and passion will eternally burn. Lee Stephen Littlefield was born on September 2, 1950, in Grand Rapids, MI. His parents were Edmund and Verna Littlefield. Lee as the youngest of three, grew up on a farm with his brother, Arthur, who preceded him in death, and his sister, Mary Jo. As an active youngster, Lee enjoyed the outdoors and the free reign farm life offered. He loved playing cowboys, running the fields in his cowboy boots, cowboy hat, holsters and… no shirt. Since an early age, Lee was an overachiever, learning to drive at the age of ten. Lee attended the Bronson Elementary and High Schools (MI). Lee went on to earn his BA in Education (University of Michigan, 1974). He began his career in education as an Elementary School teacher in Sandy, Utah; and earned his Master in Economics Human Resources (University of Utah). Lee worked for Orange/Osceola Service Unit as a UniServ Director for 20 years and for the Polk Education Association from 2003 until his retirement. Gifted with word, wisdom and wit, Lee sought to make a difference in the field of education and effectively served as skilled negotiator, writer, trainer, lobbyist, and speaker…always presenting a calm, cool and collected presence. He received numerous commendations for his work. Lee’s greatest pride was not his outstanding career accomplishments but his sons from his first marriage, Derek (Jeremy-wife) and Richard (LeeAnne – wife); and grandchildren: Annabel, Evan, Jaxson, and Mason. His sons loved playing basketball and going to the Magic games with Dad. Growing up, the bike rides to Thomas Sweet for ice cream and going boating were prized traditions. As adults, the Christmas celebrations and family gathering offered the three generations – memories to be cherished. Lee married Rhode Morales in 2003 and the love they shared for one another embraced each other’s families. Lee truly lived out his wedding vows as he loved and cared for Rhode during all seasons of their lives. The past year offered Lee and Rhode the opportunity to travel and spend time with family, far and near. Lee’s love for life included diverse interests such as reading, current events, basketball, cooking and boating, and he generously shared them with others, especially the delicious pies and cookies. Lee began his faith journey in his formative years at the First Congregational Church in Michigan. He was member of the Pentecostal Church of God-Apocalipsis for the last 13 years, where he served as Youth Advisor for a period. In recent weeks, the medical diagnosis did not extinguish Lee’s hope nor rob him of his sense of tranquility. The educator again taught others: stay calm, be at peace - and up to his last breath on the morning of September 30, 2016, he remained at peace. For Lee Stephen Littlefield, with accustomed dignity and grace, Surrounded by those he ardently loved and cherished Answered His Creator’s bidding, (for us much too soon) As this gentle soul transitioned from earthly abode to heaven above.

Lee Stephen Littlefield

September 2, 1950 - September 30, 2016