Lelan "Lee" Ray Jamison, Jr.

Lelan (Lee) Ray Jamison, Jr.

Lelan (Lee) Ray Jamison Jr., died on August 26, 2025, at the age of 84 after a complicated illness. Born on October 24, 1940, in Morgantown, WV, to Lelan Ray Jamison, Sr. and Dorothy (Lusebrink) Jamison, Lee's life was one of purpose, faith, and joy. He passed away peacefully in Mendota Heights, MN, surrounded by the love of his family.

A proud alumnus of Hopkins High School (1958) and the University of Minnesota, Lee earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1962 and his Master's in Aeronautical Engineering in 1964. Lee's professional journey began at NASA (1966-1968) in California, where he contributed to the advancements of space exploration. He moved back to Minnesota with his then wife, Beth (Patterson) and two children, to work at Scheldahl, Inc. in Northfield, MN (1968-1983.) He later worked for BMC Industries Inc. (1984-1987), UFE Incorporated (1987-2008), and Evergreen Sales (2008-2018). His work took him around the world, from Thailand, Japan and Viet Nam to Great Britain and Europe. His work on weather and surveillance balloons, often used in military applications, grew into flexible circuitry and precision-molded plastic parts for various applications.

A man of deep faith, Lee served the church in many capacities: as a leader in the Methodist Youth Group as a young man, teaching Sunday School for middle schoolers, and participating in the missions of the church. His commitments to affordable housing, social justice initiatives, and the Stephen Ministry program exemplified his dedication to serving others.

Lee's interests reflected his vibrant spirit. An enthusiastic gardener, he found peace and fulfillment in tending his yard and gardens. Other passions included fishing, golf, travel, music and sports, especially college men’s and professional women’s basketball, and any sport his four children participated in. Lifetime highlights included: singing in choir, from his high school show choir days to the adult church choir; numerous fishing trips with family and friends; family time at "the lake" and at the shore; season tickets to UMN Gopher basketball game; and trips to the NCAA Final Four Men's Basketball tournament and to the Masters Golf Tournament.

As a man of optimism, intelligence, and thoughtfulness, Lee was a steady and encouraging presence in the lives of all who knew him. He was a caring and loyal friend, father and spouse. Lee's impact on his friends, family, and co-workers was profound, and his memory will be treasured.

Lee is survived by his wife of 42 years, Elise (Deakyne,) his children, Kathryn (Robert), David (Anna), Erika, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Jamison; grandchildren Sofia (Elijah,) and Henry Jokela, Olivia and Charlotte Jamison, Natalie Tobin, Olivia Florek, Finnegan and Katherine Jamison and a great-grandchild expected next spring. He was preceded in death by his son, Stephen, and his parents.

A service celebrating Lee’s life will be held at House of Hope Presbyterian Church, 797 Summit Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55105, on Friday, September 12, at 11:00 am. A time of fellowship and light refreshments will follow the service.

Visitation Thursday, September 11 at Willwerscheid Funeral Home, 1167 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105 from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Lee’s Celebration of Life will be livestreamed and archived at https://www.hohchurch.org/worship-music/live-streaming-house-hope-church/

Memorials preferred to House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul.