Obituary of Herbert Lee Callister

Herbert Lee Callister

December 12, 1946 – March 25, 2025

Lee Callister of LaSalle, age 78, passed away peacefully on March 25^th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his parents, Herbert (1990) and Doris (2015), as well as his sister, Lyn (2022). Lee is survived by his wife, Jean, and their children, Susan (Joe), David (Carol), and Sheri (Andrew). He also leaves behind his brother, Paul, and sister, Joan. Affectionately known as "Gramps," he will be dearly missed by his cherished grandchildren, Kristin, Jessica, Melissa, Sara, Meagan, Lauren, Kyle, Mitchell, Kara, and great-grandson, Wyatt.

Lee retired from Chrysler in 2000 after 35 years of service and was a proud brother of Unifor Local 444. He was a longtime supporter of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 594. Over the years, Lee enjoyed playing softball, pool, and cards with fellow members of the Windsor Euchre League. A familiar face in the Poker Room at the casino, Lee is likely still chasing the elusive Bad Beat.

Lee loved cold beer, classic rock, and the company of his family, friends, and acquaintances. A self-proclaimed "environmentalist," he had a knack for rescuing barbeques from the roadside, collecting pop tabs for charity, and keeping his recycling bins in perfect order. His sharp wit and quick humor remained with him until the very end. After sharing laughs and a final farewell toast, Lee left us with this line from a song by Jelly Roll: "I'm not okay, but it's all gonna be all right."

At Lee’s request, cremation will take place, and a private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, caregivers, and volunteers who provided unwavering support throughout Lee’s courageous battle with cancer. During his brief stay at Hospice, which became his home away from home, he was deeply moved by the compassionate care he received. Inspired to pay it forward, Lee made a generous donation before his passing. If you so desire, donations in his memory may be made to The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County Inc.