Lee U. Michael, Sr.
1924-2007
Lee Unger Michael, Sr., 83, of Williamsport, Md., died Saturday, September 8, 2007, at Washington County, Hospital, Hagerstown, Md.
He was born April 7, 1924, in Morgan County, W.Va,. the son of the later Clifton Bennett and Minnie Russell Unger Michael.
He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the South Pacific.
He graduated from Berkeley Springs High School, class of 1944.
He was employed by J.B. Ferguson Co. and the Blake Construction Co., where he was supervisor. He then established his own company, Lee Builders Inc., in 1977. He did construction work in five states. He retired after 23 years, in 1990.
In 1982, he built the Marbern Road Home, the first barrier-free home for the handicapped in Maryland, operated by the Arc. Since the birth of his handicapped son, he has dedicated hours volunteering in every needed capacity for the betterment of housing and programs for the mentally and physically handicapped in Washington County and the State of Maryland.
He was a member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church, Hagerstown, Berkeley Springs American Legion and a life member of the DAV, VFW and the Williamsport Lions Club.
He has been an active member of the Washington County Association of Retarded Citizens since 1960, serving in many official capacities and on numerous committees. He was recognized for his service by receiving many awards, including a "Salute to Excellence" award from Gov. Shaefer for his service as chairman of the board of the Potomac Center.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Frances Aulabaugh Michael, whom he married April 10, 1944; one daughter, Jo Ann Michael Converse, Williamsburg, Va.; one son, Lee U. Michael, Jr., Hagerstown; one granddaughter, Jennifer Lee Burke, Fairfax, Va.; one grandson, Joseph Michael Converse, Williamsburg; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by one sister, Pauline Spring; and four brothers, Winford Michael, Willard Michael, Vernon Michael and Benton Michael.
There was a celebration of life service on Tuesday, September 11, at Emmanuel United Methodist Church, Hagerstown, with Rev. Kenneth Hawes as celebrant. A private graveside service was held at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Williamsport.
The Osborne Funeral Home, Williamsport, handled the arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to either Arc of Washington County, 820 Florida Ave., Hagerstown, MD 21740 or Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 802 Summit Ave., Hagerstown, MD 21740.
