Maxine Idamae Lee (Ruckel), 80, of Springfield, Ore. passed away on Feb. 28, 2022 at home surrounded by her loving family.
Maxine was born in Wichita, Kan. to Francis and Margaret Ruckel on July 17, 1941. She grew up in Riddle, Ore. and graduated from Riddle High School in 1959. She married Wilford Lee of Myrtle Creek, Ore. on May 22, 1960. Early in her career, she worked as a secretary for Roseburg Lumber. In 1966, she and Wilford moved to Springfield, where she worked at the University of Oregon Law School as an administrative assistant for the Law Review Journal. She retired in 1999, with over 30 years at the university. In honor of her loyal and excellent service, the Maxine Lee Award for Editorial Excellence is awarded to the top law review student each year.
In life, she was an avid reader, quilter, traveler, gardener and sports enthusiast. Her favorite team was the Oregon Ducks in all sports. She was also an excellent musician; being awarded the John Philip Sousa Band award in high school. Above all, she loved spending time with her family.
Maxine is preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Margaret Ruckel, brother Larry Ruckel, and nephew Jaret Ruckel.
Maxine is survived by her husband of 61 years, Wilford Lee, daughter, Rhonda Chapman (Matt), son Darren Lee (Kimberly) sisters Kathy Van Hess (Lee) and Karen Cahill (Mike), grandchildren Katie Chapman, Courtney Locatis, Blake Chapman, Samantha Lee, Amanda Lee, Justin Lee and numerous nieces and nephews.
Graveside services were held March 4 at Roseburg Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of Life will be held later this summer.
