Lee Charles Grilley

Lee Charles Grilley

Lee Charles Grilley, age 81 years young, died peacefully at his home on January 24. 2024. In 2007 he was diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, a rare autoimmune liver disease. In 2012 he received a liver transplant for which he was always grateful to the unknown donor and the Transplant Team at Mayo Clinic. As a result, he was blessed to live another twelve years.

He had a passion for lakes, rivers, oceans, and Puget Sound; anything that involved being out on the water. His passion began at a young age. Lee became a Sea Scout in High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy prior to graduation.  He completed two years of college before serving two years of active duty in Japan.  Upon resuming civilian life, he served for several years in the Naval Reserve. That passion for being on the water continued throughout his life, and he loved fishing.  He always looked forward to time on his boat “Sea Sic Mom”, especially when the trips included family.

Lee and Sara

The center of Lee’s universe was his family. He was a happy, loving, supportive husband, father and grandfather. Time spent with family made him happy, whether in Washington or Florida. While helping to raise four children and working full-time, he found time to volunteer with his sons’ sports teams; volunteered with the Boy Scouts in several capacities for many years; attended all school events involving his children, and continued being a proud fan of his grandchildren’s participation in those same events.

He loved working with his hands and was a Union Carpenter until he was hired by the Federal Way Fire Department to work in their new Facilities Building. From 1986 to 2007 he used his skills at the seven stations in the district.

Lee enjoyed helping people and his love of people was always evident. He was a volunteer fireman for 28 years. After retirement, he volunteered at St. Francis Hospital, worked as an usher at Seahawks games, and later at Mariner’s games, until his health became an issue.

Lee is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Sara; a daughter, Lisa (Maurice); sons Peter (Hilary); Paul (Wendy); Todd (Amy); two granddaughters – Rachel and Jordan and six grandsons – Tyler, Jacob, Trevor, Evan, Alan, and Daniel; and two great-granddaughters along with 4 step-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by several cousins and their families, and his wife’s siblings and their families.

Special “Thanks” to the Hospice Team for their loving support during his last illness.

Special thanks to the Federal Way/South King Fire Department “family”.

Donations can be donated in his name to:

PSC Partners for a Cure

PSC Partners Seeking a Cure | Education, Research & Treatment

Or

Gabriel House of Care (Transplant Recovery Home)

Gabriel House of Care