Ken Lee

With deep love and sorrow, the family of Ken T. Lee announces his passing on May 20, 2025, at the age of 80.

Ken was born in Seoul, South Korea, to Yoon Tae Eel and Lee Myoung Dal. The second of eight children and the eldest son, Ken took on the responsibilities of family with characteristic strength and quiet resolve. He is survived by one sister and five brothers.

A proud graduate of Korea University, Ken earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics in 1967. He began his career as a high school math teacher in Korea, where he shared his deep knowledge and love of learning with his students.

In 1978, Ken moved to the United States and joined the U.S. Army, where he rose to the rank of Sergeant as an Equipment Records and Parts Specialist. His family joined him in the U.S. in 1981. He had an honorable discharge from the US Army in 1984 and moved to Champaign-Urbana with his wife and, at that time, two young children. He continued his military service in the U.S. Army National Guard in Champaign, Illinois, as a Sergeant Detective 1 until 1986.

After completing his military service, Ken poured his energy into entrepreneurship. In 1986, he opened Ken Lee’s Convenience Store, and later Lee’s Oriental Grocery in 1994. A dedicated shop owner and workaholic, he could be found working every day of the year, including Christmas and New Year’s Day. He retired in 2007, though Lee’s Oriental remained open until 2018.

Ken faced health challenges with resilience and grace, surviving a stroke in 2008 and battling lung cancer, diagnosed in 2022, with quiet courage.

Above all, Ken was a devoted husband and father. He married Jong R. Lee in 1977. Together they raised three children—Sang, Keong, and Jake—with love, discipline, and deep dedication.

Ken will be remembered for his steadfast work ethic, humble nature, and the deep care he gave to his family and his pride of being a veteran. His journey from Seoul to Illinois was one of perseverance, sacrifice, and love—a life well lived.

Please join Ken’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held from 3-6pm on Tuesday May 27, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 710 N. Neil Street Champaign, Illinois 61820. As per Ken’s wishes, cremation will follow services.