Leland 'Lee" Perry Bugbee

Leland ‘Lee” Perry Bugbee, follower of Christ, proud US Air Force veteran, lover of donuts, southern gospel music and the Ohio State Buckeyes, passed on to his heavenly reward on Thursday, January 19, 2023.

Lee was born in Conneaut, Ohio, May 1, 1941, to Irving and Lillian (Robbins) Bugbee. Lee joined the United States Air Force upon graduation from high school when he worked on aircraft radar and navigation. Lee received an honorable discharge from the US Air Force in 1966.  He was blessed with the opportunity to visit 19 foreign countries while serving and often recounted fond memories of the experiences he had.

Lee moved the family to Sugar Grove from Hilliard, Ohio in 1974 where he became a gentleman farmer and active member of the community.  He served on the Berne Union Board of Education and co-chaired the Sugar Grove 4th of July when it was in danger of being discontinued, doing his part in assuring that the Festival would go on to be the success that it is today.

Lee retired from Xerox after 35 years of service and became a fixture at Fairfield Christian Church where he established the well loved “Friday Nights at Fairfield” Southern Gospel Concert Series.  He would happily greet friends each Sunday in the foyer.  Lee could start up a conversation with anyone, anywhere and at any time – there was no such thing as a stranger.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Karol, daughter, Kimberly (David) Bever, and son, Michael (April) Bugbee, nephew, Bruce (Alice) Bugbee of  Horton, Michigan and niece, Laurel (Bill) May of Columbus, Ohio, extended family and beloved doggo companion, Snickers.

Lee joined his parents, Irving and Lillian, along with his brother, Doug and sister-in-law, Verla walking the streets of gold.

The family would like to thank the wonderful and caring staff of Grant Medical Center for the incredibly thoughtful and compassionate care they provided during his illness.

Caring Cremation® has taken place by the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, LANCASTER, OHIO. No services are to be observed at this time.

If you would like to make a contribution in Lee’s memory, the family suggests the Semper Fi Fund at https://thefund.org/donate/ or to Fairfield Christian Church, 1965 N. Columbus St., Lancaster, Ohio 43130.

Lee was known for his all-encompassing bear hugs so please make sure to take time today and squeeze someone you love.