Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
Lee.
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for Lee Durbin
Leland Leon Durbin, of Golden, Colorado, devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2019 at the age of 84.
Leland was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Mary Durbin, and his son-in-law Arlyn Davison.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Virginia Durbin, their children, Debra Davison, Diana (John) Morgan, Mary (Kent) Reiman, Leon (Rhonda) Durbin, and Jenifer (Larry) Proud, his sisters, Mary Lou Durbin OSF and Rose Martie, his sister-in-law Arlene Munyon, sixteen grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Lee was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. However, most of all, he was a servant of God. Lee was an example of his faith to all who knew him. His infectious smile could light up a room. He was soft spoken with a special wit and great wisdom.
Lee was born on May 18, 1935 to Bernard and Mary Durbin in Ramsey, Illinois. His mother passed on her love of the Virgin Mary and had Lee reciting the rosary by the age of four. Lee was blessed with two sisters Mary Lou, OSF and Rose that always adored their older brother. The family moved to Colorado and Lee graduated with the Golden High School Class of 1952. He met the love of his life at a dance. After four months of dating, he married Virginia Corbin on November 15, 1958. The young couple welcomed their daughter Debra Ann, followed by Diana Darlene, Mary Madalyn, a son Leon Albert and another daughter Jenifer Lee.
Lee was a wonderful provider and used his gifts of carpentry to build the family a log cabin in Conifer. During the summer Lee put up hay and raised cattle on the Echo Valley Ranch which belonged to Virginia’s parents. Many family memories were created there as drinking water was hauled to the house from a spring, and the out-house was up the hill. Winters were spent on snowmobiles that Lee kept in prime running condition.
Lee was an avid supporter of his children’s endeavors. He spent countless hours on bleacher seats and thousands of miles on the road to cheer them on to victory. Lee’s encouragement was a little different from most fathers. It didn’t matter what the end result was, Lee was always satisfied with his children as he knew they did their best and they always knew he was proud. His eyes always twinkled, and his smile said it all. His trademark congratulation was a gentle squeeze on the elbow.
As time marched on, 16 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren arrived. Lee cud-dled and loved them all. He attended baptisms, confirmations, athletic events, music recitals, plays, fairs, graduations and weddings. Lee enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling. He was kind, generous, quick witted, funny, quiet, loving, dependable, strong, and faithful. His unexpected passing has left us broken hearted and empty, but his faith continues to strengthen us. We are comforted with his favorite saying, “God knows best.”
With Much Love in Honor of our Dad, Deb, Dee Dee, Mary, Leon, and Jenifer
