Dr. Alfred T. Lee

June 5, 1921-May 6, 2017

Passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 6, 2017, at the age of 95 years.

Alfred was born in San Francisco on June 5, 1921 to Luke Kow Lee and Choy Chan Lee. His father left the family to seek his fortune, leaving him to be raised by his mother. At the time, as an only child, he entertained himself with books, developing a passion for reading. A turning point in his life occurred when, after being turned away from the Central YMCA , he was referred to the Chinatown Y. It was there that he picked up basketball and met many lifelong friends. He was a member of the first graduating class of Marina Junior High School and graduated from Lowell High School in 1939. He was drafted into the army during World War 2 and was stationed in Texas serving as a pharmacist. After discharge, with the aid of the G.I. Bill, he enrolled in the Illinois College of Optometry graduating in 1950. He returned home establishing a practice in Chinatown working six-day weeks for over 60 years. Alfred married wife Evelyn in 1953, and together, they went on to raise three sons. He is predeceased by Evelyn and survived by sons Michael, Eric (Teddi), Rodney (Denise) and grandchildren Erica, Gregory, Sammy, and Kira. Alfred was active in the Chinatown community, was a member of the Chinatown YMCA, the Chinese Sportsman Club, the Chinatown Lion’s Club and several other organizations. He was a lifelong supporter of Chinatown basketball. Alfred was known for his fondness for basketball, tennis, movies, stamps and music, but will be forever remembered for his optimistic outlook on life and love for people, family, and friends. He is interred at Greenlawn Memorial Park. Donations may be made in his memory to the Chinatown YMCA .