Robert Lee Obituary

Robert Edward Lee, 89, New Smyrna Beach, passed away on Monday, February 7, 2022 at Indigo Manor, Daytona Beach, after a battle with heart failure. Bob was born June 19, 1932 in Chicago, IL to Lester and Rose Lee, but at the age of six months, was adopted by his uncle, Phillip Fortmann and aunt, Caroline Seider. He was a congregate at St. Viator Catholic Church, Chicago and attended the University of Illinois on a football scholarship. He then joined the U. S. Navy in 1954 and was stationed on the USS Coral Sea as a radar technician, touring the Mediterranean. Bob was a current member and past Commander of American Legion Post #285, Edgewater, where he was also appointed Judge Advocate and chaired many programs. He was also former Commander of the American Legion Post #17, New Smyrna Beach, serving in many capacities in TAL District 17. Bob was the sales agent/manager of Schooner Realty, New Smyrna Beach where he helped many first time buyers with integrity to purchase their forever home. His career focused on sales until his sickness. He leaves behind his daughter, Robin Eve Lee (Danny Levar) of Chicago and sister, Margaret Paulsen, also of Chicago, along with many nieces and nephews throughout the US. He is also survived by his domestic partner of 42 years, Eleanor Amato, his stepson, Michael (Melanie) Amato of Edgewater and his precious step granddaughter, Piper Quinn Amato. He was preceded in death by parents, Phillip and Caroline Fortmann, sisters, Edna Lee Morton and Verna Lee Kanarowski and brother, Fred Paulsen. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 AM Saturday, February 26, 2022 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, New Smyrna Beach. Following the Mass, a Celebration of Life will be 1 PM at the American Legion Post #285, 4497 S. U.S. Highway 1, Edgewater. Cremains burial will be 3 PM Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, Mims with full military honors by the U. S. Navy and American Legion Post #285 honor guards.