Lee Anderson
Jun 23rd 1974 - Jul 7th 2007
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Kaileigh Rae
August 4th 2007
sktbjt@aol.com
Daddy,
I sit here today with Mommy and we share our memories and I'm ready to share these thoughts with you. I love you and miss you more than you could ever imagine. I loved to ride in your lap in the truck on the race track. You let me drive and it was sooo much fun. I came back to mommy and bragged all day about driving at daddy's races. Lee, I have been blessed by sharing a perfect daughter with you. We have such a history and I have our beautiful child with me everyday to remind me of that. Love never Dies!!
Forever In Our Hearts
Mommy (Tara) & Princess Kaileigh
Daniel Smith
July 18th 2007
Dan_Smit4886@yahoo.com
Lee was my favorite outlaw super late model driver in the midwest although i am from pennsylvania i had the luxury of of going to a lot of races in the midwest and i followed lees carreerand saw him win alot of big race shows my favorite one was he took the money home from the owosso speedway MUSA race and beat out alot of great drivers he was by far my most favorite driver and now he will be sadly missed by me and a lot more race fans who know and watched what a great driver he was God Speed LEE God Speed I will miss you
Speedway Safety Inc.
July 16th 2007
speewaysafetyfr@yahoo.com
All of us at Speedway Safety would like to pass on our sincere apologies and condolences to the Anderson family, and everyone who was close to Lee. Its never easy to lose someone so close, especially so unexpectedly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
-- Eric Kozel, COO
Speedway Safety Inc.
Kurt Dietrich
July 16th 2007
info@speed-media.com
Lee, I cannot pin point any one memory I have from our past few years but I can say I appreciate you being a great friend, motivator and client. You are partially responsible (don't want to lay all of the blame on you.) for a lot of the chances I have taken recently due to your encouragement. I only wish we would have had the chance for that final chapter of us moving our business' into the same building and expanding them both together.
I had so much respect for what you where doing. I remember when you won the Klash driving one of your own cars I could not contain my excitement for you. I to this day still don't know if you realize how big an accomplishment that was as you where always so humble.
I truly believe Perfect Circle was just on the verge of exploding, I wish you would have been able to see that happen as hard as you worked to make it what it was.
I still can't believe you are gone and I probably won't for quite some time. Lee, I just want to thank you one last time for the years of friendship as well as the hours of laughter we had. Godspeed to you, see you again sometime down the road buddy.
Kurt
July 16th 2007
Remembered Joy
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m Free!
I follow the plan god laid for me.
I saw his face, I heard his call,
I took His hand and left it all…
I could not stay another day,
To Love, to Laugh, to work or Play;
Task left undone must stay that way.
And if my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered Joy.
A friendship shared, a Laugh, a kiss…
Ah yes, these things I, Too, Shall miss.
My Life’s been full, I’ve savored much;
Good Times, Good Friend, a loved-ones touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all to brief---
Don’t shorten yours with undue grief.
Be not burdened with tears of Sorrow.
Enjoy the sunshine of tomorrow.
Walk on
Isaac Ulanowicz
July 15th 2007
Dcrinion@comcast.net
One of my memories of cousin Lee:
It was a week or two after my ninth birthday, which my Mom & Dad bought me my first dirt bike. My family, Mom, Dad, Danielle, Jacob and I went over to Aunt Debbie's and Uncle Dennis's, where Lee met us.
He got out his dirt bike and showed it to me. "Wow", I remember thinking, someday, maybe i'll be able to ride a dirt bike like that.
Anyways, Lee took me and my TTR 90 to the field behind his parents house, where he taught me how to ride a dirt bike. It was a BLAST! Fast, was our favorite thing to do...not mom's! I remember hearing her yell to us, "Slow down boys!" We rode together for hours.
After our dirt riding lesson was done, Lee took me into the garage and there continued to teach me. "After riding, you must always take care of your equipment", Lee said. We cleaned the wheels and oiled the chain and whatever else Lee said needed to be done.
A few months later, Lee gave me a pair of biking pants and a couple of shirts to wear while riding.
Thank you Lee for teaching me how to ride a dirt bike. I love you and will always hold this memory close to my heart!
Love you,
Cousin Isaac
Mike Fryman
July 13th 2007
mfryman@skytron.us
Lee was a great guy and a all around great athlete. He will be sorely missed by all that knew him.
The Fryman family
mike miller
July 13th 2007
miller52@cinci.rr.com
lee was a kind and happy go lucky type person, always willing to take a few minutes to talk racing and try to help anyway he could. he was one of the best in the business, i will never forget his kindness and willingness to help others we should all take this lesson from lee, good friend, the real kind, great racer and father, i will never forget, thanks for the memories lee. my prayers and thoughts are with the families of all involved, may god help you through these difficult times, we will all miss lee anderson
Steve and Chris Kuikstra
July 12th 2007
reno1964@earthlink.net
Dennis and Deb Our prayers are with you. So sorry for the lost of your son.Thinking of you.Always Steve and Chris
Doug & Nancy Ditmar
July 12th 2007
dditmar@sbcglobal.net
Some years ago while our son Grant was dating Amy he encouraged us to attend a race at Berlin that Lee was participating in. We are not race fans, and had never been to Berlin. After watching the Late Model event in which Lee was edged out of the win on the last lap, we left incredibly impressed with what we saw. He was obviously very good at what he did. I remember dropping him a note in the mail telling him so. We are deeply saddened by his death. Coincidentally Grant was in town from Florida when it was announced on the local news and saw the broadcast as well. Our deepest sympathies to all of you. We know that this must be incredibly difficult. May God's all sufficient grace provide healing. Best Wishes.
Dan and Lee VandenBerg
July 12th 2007
danvandenberg@att.net
Den and Debi - We are so sorry for the loss of your son. We know you are proud of Lee and grateful for the joy he has brought to your family. Keep in mind all the prescious memories that honor his life.
Kathy (Gafford) Elzinga
July 12th 2007
kelzingabunny@yahoo.com
I actually graduated with Lee from High school. He was a lovable kind of guy.
He has touched so many lives and will be dearly missed.
Our thoughts and prayers goes out to the Anderson family.
Eileen Heible
July 12th 2007
eileenhbl@yahoo.com
I am deeply saddened to hear the news of lee. I have been thinking of him, every since I heard about the accident.
I can remember him and his family stopping in the pit stop for years, and I truly will miss his friendly personality and smile. Its not a shock to me to hear he had so many friends, he was a likeable person. I know hes in a better place and doing the one thing he loves racing, it will be hard to get over his loss. With deepest sympathy eileen
John Hotchkiss
July 12th 2007
JBRacing@webtv.net
Hi Denny, Deb and Lee's family and friends
Please accept my heartfelt condolences to
the loss of Lee.
I was fortunate to have Lee introduce himself to me at our race at Berlin two years ago. I was impressed immediately and followed his racing activities from then on.
John Hotchkiss
&
JB Racing
Sam and Judy Lovett
July 11th 2007
samjudykins@charter.net
We are both very saddened to hear about the loss of Lee. We always enjoyed watching him race. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Denny and all of the family.
Our deepest sympathy,
Sam and Judy
Christine Doele-Musser
July 11th 2007
doomuss@comcast.net
Lee was a delight to have in my English Class - I appreciated his quick smile, his wit, and his willingness to meet a challenge. I am so sorry that we have lost him, but he will live on in my memory. Sincerely, Ms. Doele
Shannon Schaefer
July 11th 2007
shannon_schaefer@yahoo.com
Well unlike most, i knew Lee from Junior High till graduation, and we seemed too have went our seperate ways, ocassionally running into one another and having a drink, laughing about old times.. Mainly him crashing his car twice on hendershot.
Where do you begin? We spents hours on tops of hours with one another, wrestling practice, meets, bus rides, and tournaments. Sitting in the back of the bus picking on Coach Crunch laughing with Chris McCLATCHY , and Arron White.I am laughing just thinking about it. But i guess that time i was in Auto-mech class with lee when i passed out in the front seat of his black monte carlo, has to be the best one.... i woke up, and lee had raised the car in the air while i was sleeping, and him yelling at me not too get out, the laughter in his voice, and that famous grin of his. how could i forget.
Lee even though life has took us different ways, i always considered you a great friend, and always looked back on our times together and laugh. Your character, and grin were loved by many. You will be missed but never forgotten.
Tracy (Foster) Storch
July 11th 2007
chattertracy90@hotmail.com
I met Lee when he was in Third Grade through Tom House (Who is friends with my dad) & we spent a bit of time together riding dirt bikes, shooting bb guns at my family's cabin when Tom & Lee would visit. I saw him a few more times over the years when he worked for Tom & he always made time to chat & he always had that fabulous smile. My thoughts & prayers are with the Anderson Family & Tom. I am sure that his daughter will get to know what a great dad she had. He will be dearly missed!!
Cassie Wilcox
July 11th 2007
I am one of those spectators that never thought that the race @ M40 Speedway on July 4, 2007 would be Lee's last. I truly enjoyed watching him race as he was always a top competitor. I personally never had the chance to meet Lee but I always cheered him on. God Speed Lee and know that you were liked by many and will be greatly missed on the track! My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Rose and Robert Gillam(Kalamazoo Speedway Fans
July 11th 2007
nylonjoggingpants@yahoo.com
We didnt know lee that well but we were fans of his at the kalamazoo speedway. He always had a smile and always talked to us when we went down to see him.He was a great driver and a winner in all of our hearts.thank god we got a picture of lee and his daughter at kalamazoo speedway we have doubles of them that lee wanted one but we never got to give him the picture give us an address and we will send the picture to his family and his daughter.He will be sadly miss by us and everyone who knew him.
Aunt Di Uncle Bill Herrmann
July 11th 2007
dianecedarauto@sbcglobal.net
My dearest Lee there is such a hugh emptyness in my heart in my darkest dreams I would never have thought we would loose you. You were always so very special to all of us. Uncle Bill and I will so much miss you coming to us for advise they were always special conversations. Our family will never be they same. We charish Kaliegh so much we thank God you left a part of you with us in time Im sure she will fill that emptyness we all have.
God speed Lee
Loved and never forgottten
Aunt Di and Uncle Bill
Ted Beebe
July 11th 2007
tbeebe@motorstate.com
I remember watching Denny Anderson race at Berlin more years ago than either of us probably care to admit but I do know that it was before Lee was born. The amazing thing that sticks in my mind is the likeness in the eyes & smile of Denny & Lee. My dad would call it a "shit eating grin". Lee raced at M-40 Speedway in Jones, MI on July 4, 2007. No way would any of us think that would be his last race. I am glad that I had the opportunity to talk with him on occasion when he would call Motor State & order parts & when we got to talk at M-40. It was quite funny when he came out to carry the American flag for the National Anthem (he was 2nd fastest) along with his former partner, fast qualifier, Joe Bush. I was on the track talking with Joe when Lee pulled alongside facing the opposite direction. He asked Joe whether he was going to go high or low. Joe said high & lee said "Okay, me too." Thanks for the laugh & the indelible smile I will remember that was passed down from your dad for everybody you met to remember you by.
Ted Beebe, Portage, MI
Jerry Kragt III
July 11th 2007
gerald.kragtIII@meijer.com
Lee and I were about eight when we became friends. Our fathers worked together on his fathers racecar, therefore we spent a couple of weeknights together, as well as weekends at the races. I remember those times fondly when we played to the point of exhaustion. We did many things. We rode our bicycles. Lee was always faster and could catwalk all the way down the street. It diddn't matter though. Lee would never brag, only help me to ride faster or catwalk further. When it got dark, we would retire to the house to draw illustrations of racecars. Lee always included the number 18, which required my to pick another. I chose 19. There were alot of firsts for me with Lee. The first time I rode a motercycle was riding his. Lee was always willing to share. The first time I went camping was with Lee and uncle Tom. The first time that I shot a rifle was on the same camping trips at the cabin. I have so many memories of when we were young. All great memories. Lee had many wonderful traits when he was young and I was fortunate enough to find that they stayed with him into adulthood. Lee and I recently reconnected as adults. I always admired his many talents and kind ways. I will never forget the last year or so that we became friends again. I really learned so much about what it was to be gracious and never boastful, to be a true friend. My heart is filled with joy knowing how he touched my life over this last year. Lee truly defined what a friend should be. I will always remember him, but take pleasure in knowing that he is with the Lord and that we will see each other again some day in paradise. My prayers are with his family and the many others that Lee touched. Goodbye my friend. I miss you.
Kirk Matthews
July 11th 2007
ckirkmatthews@aol.com
My heart-felt prayers and thoughts go out to your family and friends. I never knew you personally but I learned to respect your driving on the track and how you handled yourself whether winning or losing. I had so much respect for you. Living over here on the east side of Michigan, many of us race fans admired and respected your on-track accomplishments. I've witnessed your racing accomplishments from Berlin to Owosso to Columbus and all points in-between. My buddy and I always picked 3 drivers to possible win for every 100 lap race we saw you in, and you were always one of my 3 picks. I'll remember you forever for being a winner.
Chris Koslek
July 11th 2007
kozwc05@hotmail.com
Lee has been my boss for the past year now as the time went on and people moved on i turned into his right hand man at the shop and sometimes it would be stressfull but he had the full confidence in me that i could get things done when he wasnt there and would not have to worry. He turned me into the fabricator i am today i could hadly do a thing until he tought me the "right" way to do things. He had a way to read a person and learn how to teach you where it would make you learn the most. He has tought me things i will never forget and every race we win in the car lee and i built together will be a testament of the knowledge he has passed on to me and the devotion he has tought me that you have to have to the sport. You will be missed, but NEVER forgotten lee...
Gary Lee Marble
July 11th 2007
outlaw4917@charter.net
From the very first time I met you, in your dads racing career when you were just a little boy. I watched you grow up into a fine young man following your father footsteps into a tremendous racer and friend.
I'll always remember you with those checked flags in your hand because you were a first place guy in everything you did and said, you will be truly missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Anderson family and to all of those who had the honor of being a friend of Lee.
Ryan Herrmann
July 10th 2007
countryboy78210@yahoo.com
Lee,
It tears me up knowing that i will never get to see you again. No more holidays at grandma's, no more trips to my mom and dad's cabin, and no more hanging out with you in the pits. You have so many people who love you. I've known you for 22 years and you were one of the best cousins, fathers, friends I will ever have known. I will cherish the time that I was blessed with to know you. God speed Lee. I will always love you.
Ryan
nicole
July 10th 2007
racing_babe_90@yahoo.com
i've known lee for a few years and he always had a big smile on his face... even win he lost a race i would go down in the pits and give him a hug and he would have that huge smile on his face
Lee i already miss you Berlin just isnt going to be the same without you out there.
Lee loved Kaileigh so much. she was the love of his life.
you made it to the finish line Lee..
i luv you buddy and i missyou
RIP forever young
Pat (Verhey) Raap
July 10th 2007
pat@raapsigns.com
I remember going to my Grandma Verheys house on Jones St and hearing stories of her little neighbor friend Lee. They sure did love him and his visits. That was many years ago. My heart goes out to your family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Jason Spicer
July 10th 2007
photoshooter76@yahoo.com
I got to know Lee when I was about 13 thru my sister and other friends in his class. Lee was someone different from most. He was someone I looked up to as my motocross love grew. I remember racing down to Walker pit to watch him ride. I remember digging with a shovel to make some biggers jumps for him to hit and do amazing things with that bike. And when he was ready to pack it up, he always made sure to say bye with that fingers out hand roll wave (something that will stick in my memories). Such an easy going guy that everbody loved and could never not like. It was too soon for you Lee, but you were needed somewhere else. We will all miss you and most of we will never forget you.
Jason
keith karwat & family
July 10th 2007
kakarwat@yahoo.com
lee im missing you. i im thinking of the good times we had. like packing down your starting line for your dirt bike raceing. that was fun. your a good racer....hunting at toms cabin.going to the races and seeing you win .and hering the fans cheer you on. i got a lot of good thoughts in my head and there not going no wear...... im going to miss you..when we run in to eachother again im kicking your butt for not geting my car done.....ha ha ha ....love ya lee......im going to miss laughing and jokeing with you...
dustin gibbs
July 10th 2007
buddylove33000@hotmail.com
man i dont know where to start he was a good friend to me he talk to me when i needed him i go to his shop and chill with him was the sweetest man i ever met he will never be forgotten ever thanks to him i will follow my dreams and be like him im sorry for the loss thanks to lee i can live life and reemeber what he told me............ rip my bestfriend 4 ever god bless the famly.........
Janna
July 10th 2007
jannaprice@sbcglobal.net
Not sure of the right words to say. Not sure where to go from here. Knowing that your name is stored in my phone and yet if I call there will be no answer. Not knowing that the last conversation I had with you would be our last, and the time we spent together we would never have again. Lee, you were put on this earth for such a brief stay yet you accomplished so much and touched so many lives. I remember you as a friend, I remember you as an amazing Father to Kaileigh, who cared so deeply for his little girl… she was your world. I feel so blessed to have been a part of your life here on earth. I will always remember you Lee. I miss you my friend.
Cassi & Andy Selders
July 10th 2007
tigsnursery@gmail.com
You will always be in our thoughts & hearts, you will be greatly missed by everyone. Andy & I will ALWAYS watch over your baby sister! I hope you always remember how messed up the republican party is! You know I would get the last one in, just kidding. We love you & we will see you up there some day! Love ya always!
Cassi & Andy
Berkley Petersen
July 10th 2007
eisberkley@environmentalinstallation.com
Even though I have only known Lee a very short time, I know that he is one of the nicest people I have ever met. Lee being a race car driver, my five year old daughter was sure that he was going to be able to introduce her to Jr. She thought she was so cool the day we went to ride go carts because she was racing against him. She still talks about it to this day.
Thank you so much for the memories Lee, you are missed very much. I will never forget you.
Love, Berkley
Stefanie Falstrom
July 10th 2007
sfgetthescoop@hotmail.com
Lee,
I was always so shy of you when I was young. You were always so sweet to me and got a good laugh that I was so shy. Then I grew up and wasn't shy of you. I started going to the races all of the time. I would brag to every person I knew that you were my cousin. When I watched you race I was filled with such a sense of pride. Everyone who knew you were so proud of you. Not just for the racing, but for the fact that they knew what a good friend you were, what a good father, son, brother, and grandson you were. You will be missed by every person whose lives you ever touched. We were all so lucky to have 33 wonderful years with you and we will always remember you until we join you in Heaven one day. I love you Lee and always will.
Love Stefanie
Dan Powers
July 10th 2007
danpowers@michiganinsurance.com
From our younger days at Crystal Raceway w/the whole Anderson family to banging bars when we raced together. From practice and play at the pit to races at the Silverdome. I'll never forget those days and they will always be some of my most cherished memories. Lee always had a great attitude and was always willing to help. He showed me a lot on and off the track.
God speed Lee and I hope you and Sr. (#3) will be rubbing fenders soon.
Kim Piccard
July 10th 2007
kimp@premarc.com
Lee was a great friend. He was always so full of energy and happiness. He always seemed larger than life to me, always willing to take a risk and do what he really wanted to do in life. I will miss him and that little smirk he always had.
One of the best memories I have is being in the room while Kaileigh was born. I will never forget the moment Lee looked at his daughter for the first time - he was so happy.
Lee was able to touch so many lives in such a short time - he will never be forgotten.
Aunt Sally
July 10th 2007
honeyhotfingers@yahoo.com
I'm not sure how I want to say what I am thinking and feeling right now. Margaret and I were talking about the memories we hold of you. She was remembering the time that I babysat you when the two of you went to pre-school together. I have pictures of the 2 of you riding your big wheels. One of you when the 2 of you were giving each other your bottles at Grandpa's (Don's) house in the kitchen. You will always be remembered in our thoughts and prayers. I know how much you meant to your mother and dad and Amy. They will miss your wonderful smile and your loving ways very much.
Love Aunt Sally and family
Megan (Niewiek) Richardson
July 10th 2007
MeganR182@gmail.com
A memory of Lee...
Lee Anderson is a name I've known for years around the racing world, but it wasn't until more recently when I had the opportunity to meet the real person he truly was. Lee and I have always checked in on eachother over the last couple of years - just to make sure that life was going well. And not too long ago, we started hanging out more and more...whether it was at the race track all day, me coming to visit him at his shop, him stopping by to take me to lunch or dinner, us going to watch Amy and her band with his parents, me sleeping on his bathroom floor, us heading to Toledo, spending time together relaxing, talking on the phone for 3 hours at a time, finding out that it takes him 2-1/2 hours to change a tire on my car and me promising never to tell anyone, or just exhanging goofy emails with him every day...
Lee loved Kaileigh more than life itself...she was his world.
She is the best part of Lee!
The last day I spent with Lee was 4th of July at the M40 race. It was a day I am so thankful I had and I will never forget it!
Lee was a wonderful friend to me, and I'll always cherish the time we had together. I am so thankful for all the memories and that he has always been there for me. Lee will always have a special place in my heart and I will never forget him.
Lee, I'm sure going to miss you, buddy.
Aunt Martha Chase (Anderson)
July 10th 2007
marocky@altelco.net
I will sorely miss you Lee. You were a kind-hearted person who would do anything for anyone. I have so many memories of you growing up. I thank God that we had you in our lives for 33 years. I know that you were reaching out in the past few months to bring family closer and I'm thankful for that. Marshall was saying that the reason you had to leave is because Chris (Bradley) needed a driver up in heaven and Earnhart wasn't working out. My heart and prayers go out to Den & Deb and our whole family. I love you all, and I love you Lee. Love, Aunt Martha & Uncle Marshall
Jim Jamison
July 10th 2007
jjamison@chartermi.net
Lee was a true friend to all that met him and was a great racer. Lee had a good business going for racing and will be truly missed. May God Speed.
RC & Julie Freiberg
July 10th 2007
freibergj@comcast.net
My husband RC met Lee in Kindergarden. They became close friends at a very young age. They spent many weekends traveling to the race tracks with Denny & Debbie. One of the memories that I love to relive was at 5th grade Camp Newaygo when all the girls were "in love" with Lee. Lee of course just smiled his usuall smirk and brushed it off. The remainder of his life was no different, everyone loved Lee. He was the best kind of friend you could ever ask for. He will be greatly missed by all. To the Anderson Family, Tara & Kaileigh, you are in our prayers to help you through this difficult time.
Michelle Rodriguez
July 10th 2007
Lee thought he would show my husband Derrick a fun time one night. So they headed to a bar on Lake Michigan Drive that has 'entertainment'. Well, luckily they realized in the parking lot that it was 'ladies night'! Boy would they have looked foolish going in there together! We have so many great memories of Lee. We will miss him terribly. He remained a part of our family through Kaileigh. We will always do our best to let her know what an awesome Daddy Lee was. He was a great driver, dedicated dad, and a friend to many. Lee, we miss you already and you will remain in our hearts forever!
Michelle, Derrick, Melina, & Gabrielle.
Dan Talsma
July 10th 2007
I didn't know Lee very well, but he knew me when he would see me at various race tracks. He always had a smile on his face and time to chat. My best memory was Lee winning the Klash and having a hard time in post race tech. I will not name anyone, but there were some people calling Lee every name in the book, and Lee never flinched. He just stayed as humble as he always was, and took that 20 grand that he won fair and square! Thank you Lee for all the thrills, you will be missed greatly. May the Lord be with your family and loved ones.
Bridget Julien
July 9th 2007
In the short time I've known Lee I've learned that he was a great person. Very caring, light hearted, kind, and very funny. I've laughed pretty hard at some of the stories I've heard. Anyone hit a car full of mexicans lately?? I asked Lee recently if he were still a "nice" guy. His response was....."Depends on who you ask, but most of the time...yes."
Lee....did you ever find my purse?? ha ha ;o) I regret not being able to see you race this summer. That was definitely on my list of things to do!! Very glad that Cort was able to see you last week. I'll take care of him for you and make sure he always has a D.D. You told me time and time again about getting together and needing a "responsible" person because you two had way too much fun!! In your words "It can get out of hand...you never know what's going to happen."
You were very loved and will be missed!!
God Speed Lee Anderson
Rob Robinson, wife Tina, and Family
July 9th 2007
robibc@hotmail.com
As the brother in law to one of Lee's closest friends, Kurt Dietrich, I had the pleasure of meeting Lee on a few different occasions. This gentlemen was a class act, always had a smile on his face, and for that, he will sadly be missed. Heck of a driver, Heck of a person....
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Anderson family and to all of those who had the great honor of being a friend to this individual.
Cort Corwin
July 9th 2007
ccorwin@adacautomotive.com
""Learn from yesterday, live for today, and hope for tomorrow.""
Kaileigh Rae
August 4th 2007
sktbjt@aol.com
Daddy,
I sit here today with Mommy and we share our memories and I'm ready to share these thoughts with you. I love you and miss you more than you could ever imagine. I loved to ride in your lap in the truck on the race track. You let me drive and it was sooo much fun. I came back to mommy and bragged all day about driving at daddy's races. Lee, I have been blessed by sharing a perfect daughter with you. We have such a history and I have our beautiful child with me everyday to remind me of that. Love never Dies!!
Forever In Our Hearts
Mommy (Tara) & Princess Kaileigh
Daniel Smith
July 18th 2007
Dan_Smit4886@yahoo.com
Lee was my favorite outlaw super late model driver in the midwest although i am from pennsylvania i had the luxury of of going to a lot of races in the midwest and i followed lees carreerand saw him win alot of big race shows my favorite one was he took the money home from the owosso speedway MUSA race and beat out alot of great drivers he was by far my most favorite driver and now he will be sadly missed by me and a lot more race fans who know and watched what a great driver he was God Speed LEE God Speed I will miss you
Speedway Safety Inc.
July 16th 2007
speewaysafetyfr@yahoo.com
All of us at Speedway Safety would like to pass on our sincere apologies and condolences to the Anderson family, and everyone who was close to Lee. Its never easy to lose someone so close, especially so unexpectedly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
-- Eric Kozel, COO
Speedway Safety Inc.
Kurt Dietrich
July 16th 2007
info@speed-media.com
Lee, I cannot pin point any one memory I have from our past few years but I can say I appreciate you being a great friend, motivator and client. You are partially responsible (don't want to lay all of the blame on you.) for a lot of the chances I have taken recently due to your encouragement. I only wish we would have had the chance for that final chapter of us moving our business' into the same building and expanding them both together.
I had so much respect for what you where doing. I remember when you won the Klash driving one of your own cars I could not contain my excitement for you. I to this day still don't know if you realize how big an accomplishment that was as you where always so humble.
I truly believe Perfect Circle was just on the verge of exploding, I wish you would have been able to see that happen as hard as you worked to make it what it was.
I still can't believe you are gone and I probably won't for quite some time. Lee, I just want to thank you one last time for the years of friendship as well as the hours of laughter we had. Godspeed to you, see you again sometime down the road buddy.
Kurt
July 16th 2007
Remembered Joy
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m Free!
I follow the plan god laid for me.
I saw his face, I heard his call,
I took His hand and left it all…
I could not stay another day,
To Love, to Laugh, to work or Play;
Task left undone must stay that way.
And if my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered Joy.
A friendship shared, a Laugh, a kiss…
Ah yes, these things I, Too, Shall miss.
My Life’s been full, I’ve savored much;
Good Times, Good Friend, a loved-ones touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all to brief---
Don’t shorten yours with undue grief.
Be not burdened with tears of Sorrow.
Enjoy the sunshine of tomorrow.
Walk on
Isaac Ulanowicz
July 15th 2007
Dcrinion@comcast.net
One of my memories of cousin Lee:
It was a week or two after my ninth birthday, which my Mom & Dad bought me my first dirt bike. My family, Mom, Dad, Danielle, Jacob and I went over to Aunt Debbie's and Uncle Dennis's, where Lee met us.
He got out his dirt bike and showed it to me. "Wow", I remember thinking, someday, maybe i'll be able to ride a dirt bike like that.
Anyways, Lee took me and my TTR 90 to the field behind his parents house, where he taught me how to ride a dirt bike. It was a BLAST! Fast, was our favorite thing to do...not mom's! I remember hearing her yell to us, "Slow down boys!" We rode together for hours.
After our dirt riding lesson was done, Lee took me into the garage and there continued to teach me. "After riding, you must always take care of your equipment", Lee said. We cleaned the wheels and oiled the chain and whatever else Lee said needed to be done.
A few months later, Lee gave me a pair of biking pants and a couple of shirts to wear while riding.
Thank you Lee for teaching me how to ride a dirt bike. I love you and will always hold this memory close to my heart!
Love you,
Cousin Isaac
Mike Fryman
July 13th 2007
mfryman@skytron.us
Lee was a great guy and a all around great athlete. He will be sorely missed by all that knew him.
The Fryman family
mike miller
July 13th 2007
miller52@cinci.rr.com
lee was a kind and happy go lucky type person, always willing to take a few minutes to talk racing and try to help anyway he could. he was one of the best in the business, i will never forget his kindness and willingness to help others we should all take this lesson from lee, good friend, the real kind, great racer and father, i will never forget, thanks for the memories lee. my prayers and thoughts are with the families of all involved, may god help you through these difficult times, we will all miss lee anderson
Steve and Chris Kuikstra
July 12th 2007
reno1964@earthlink.net
Dennis and Deb Our prayers are with you. So sorry for the lost of your son.Thinking of you.Always Steve and Chris
Doug & Nancy Ditmar
July 12th 2007
dditmar@sbcglobal.net
Some years ago while our son Grant was dating Amy he encouraged us to attend a race at Berlin that Lee was participating in. We are not race fans, and had never been to Berlin. After watching the Late Model event in which Lee was edged out of the win on the last lap, we left incredibly impressed with what we saw. He was obviously very good at what he did. I remember dropping him a note in the mail telling him so. We are deeply saddened by his death. Coincidentally Grant was in town from Florida when it was announced on the local news and saw the broadcast as well. Our deepest sympathies to all of you. We know that this must be incredibly difficult. May God's all sufficient grace provide healing. Best Wishes.
Dan and Lee VandenBerg
July 12th 2007
danvandenberg@att.net
Den and Debi - We are so sorry for the loss of your son. We know you are proud of Lee and grateful for the joy he has brought to your family. Keep in mind all the prescious memories that honor his life.
Kathy (Gafford) Elzinga
July 12th 2007
kelzingabunny@yahoo.com
I actually graduated with Lee from High school. He was a lovable kind of guy.
He has touched so many lives and will be dearly missed.
Our thoughts and prayers goes out to the Anderson family.
Eileen Heible
July 12th 2007
eileenhbl@yahoo.com
I am deeply saddened to hear the news of lee. I have been thinking of him, every since I heard about the accident.
I can remember him and his family stopping in the pit stop for years, and I truly will miss his friendly personality and smile. Its not a shock to me to hear he had so many friends, he was a likeable person. I know hes in a better place and doing the one thing he loves racing, it will be hard to get over his loss. With deepest sympathy eileen
John Hotchkiss
July 12th 2007
JBRacing@webtv.net
Hi Denny, Deb and Lee's family and friends
Please accept my heartfelt condolences to
the loss of Lee.
I was fortunate to have Lee introduce himself to me at our race at Berlin two years ago. I was impressed immediately and followed his racing activities from then on.
John Hotchkiss
&
JB Racing
Sam and Judy Lovett
July 11th 2007
samjudykins@charter.net
We are both very saddened to hear about the loss of Lee. We always enjoyed watching him race. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Denny and all of the family.
Our deepest sympathy,
Sam and Judy
Christine Doele-Musser
July 11th 2007
doomuss@comcast.net
Lee was a delight to have in my English Class - I appreciated his quick smile, his wit, and his willingness to meet a challenge. I am so sorry that we have lost him, but he will live on in my memory. Sincerely, Ms. Doele
Shannon Schaefer
July 11th 2007
shannon_schaefer@yahoo.com
Well unlike most, i knew Lee from Junior High till graduation, and we seemed too have went our seperate ways, ocassionally running into one another and having a drink, laughing about old times.. Mainly him crashing his car twice on hendershot.
Where do you begin? We spents hours on tops of hours with one another, wrestling practice, meets, bus rides, and tournaments. Sitting in the back of the bus picking on Coach Crunch laughing with Chris McCLATCHY , and Arron White.I am laughing just thinking about it. But i guess that time i was in Auto-mech class with lee when i passed out in the front seat of his black monte carlo, has to be the best one.... i woke up, and lee had raised the car in the air while i was sleeping, and him yelling at me not too get out, the laughter in his voice, and that famous grin of his. how could i forget.
Lee even though life has took us different ways, i always considered you a great friend, and always looked back on our times together and laugh. Your character, and grin were loved by many. You will be missed but never forgotten.
Tracy (Foster) Storch
July 11th 2007
chattertracy90@hotmail.com
I met Lee when he was in Third Grade through Tom House (Who is friends with my dad) & we spent a bit of time together riding dirt bikes, shooting bb guns at my family's cabin when Tom & Lee would visit. I saw him a few more times over the years when he worked for Tom & he always made time to chat & he always had that fabulous smile. My thoughts & prayers are with the Anderson Family & Tom. I am sure that his daughter will get to know what a great dad she had. He will be dearly missed!!
Cassie Wilcox
July 11th 2007
I am one of those spectators that never thought that the race @ M40 Speedway on July 4, 2007 would be Lee's last. I truly enjoyed watching him race as he was always a top competitor. I personally never had the chance to meet Lee but I always cheered him on. God Speed Lee and know that you were liked by many and will be greatly missed on the track! My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Rose and Robert Gillam(Kalamazoo Speedway Fans
July 11th 2007
nylonjoggingpants@yahoo.com
We didnt know lee that well but we were fans of his at the kalamazoo speedway. He always had a smile and always talked to us when we went down to see him.He was a great driver and a winner in all of our hearts.thank god we got a picture of lee and his daughter at kalamazoo speedway we have doubles of them that lee wanted one but we never got to give him the picture give us an address and we will send the picture to his family and his daughter.He will be sadly miss by us and everyone who knew him.
Aunt Di Uncle Bill Herrmann
July 11th 2007
dianecedarauto@sbcglobal.net
My dearest Lee there is such a hugh emptyness in my heart in my darkest dreams I would never have thought we would loose you. You were always so very special to all of us. Uncle Bill and I will so much miss you coming to us for advise they were always special conversations. Our family will never be they same. We charish Kaliegh so much we thank God you left a part of you with us in time Im sure she will fill that emptyness we all have.
God speed Lee
Loved and never forgottten
Aunt Di and Uncle Bill
Ted Beebe
July 11th 2007
tbeebe@motorstate.com
I remember watching Denny Anderson race at Berlin more years ago than either of us probably care to admit but I do know that it was before Lee was born. The amazing thing that sticks in my mind is the likeness in the eyes & smile of Denny & Lee. My dad would call it a "shit eating grin". Lee raced at M-40 Speedway in Jones, MI on July 4, 2007. No way would any of us think that would be his last race. I am glad that I had the opportunity to talk with him on occasion when he would call Motor State & order parts & when we got to talk at M-40. It was quite funny when he came out to carry the American flag for the National Anthem (he was 2nd fastest) along with his former partner, fast qualifier, Joe Bush. I was on the track talking with Joe when Lee pulled alongside facing the opposite direction. He asked Joe whether he was going to go high or low. Joe said high & lee said "Okay, me too." Thanks for the laugh & the indelible smile I will remember that was passed down from your dad for everybody you met to remember you by.
Ted Beebe, Portage, MI
Jerry Kragt III
July 11th 2007
gerald.kragtIII@meijer.com
Lee and I were about eight when we became friends. Our fathers worked together on his fathers racecar, therefore we spent a couple of weeknights together, as well as weekends at the races. I remember those times fondly when we played to the point of exhaustion. We did many things. We rode our bicycles. Lee was always faster and could catwalk all the way down the street. It diddn't matter though. Lee would never brag, only help me to ride faster or catwalk further. When it got dark, we would retire to the house to draw illustrations of racecars. Lee always included the number 18, which required my to pick another. I chose 19. There were alot of firsts for me with Lee. The first time I rode a motercycle was riding his. Lee was always willing to share. The first time I went camping was with Lee and uncle Tom. The first time that I shot a rifle was on the same camping trips at the cabin. I have so many memories of when we were young. All great memories. Lee had many wonderful traits when he was young and I was fortunate enough to find that they stayed with him into adulthood. Lee and I recently reconnected as adults. I always admired his many talents and kind ways. I will never forget the last year or so that we became friends again. I really learned so much about what it was to be gracious and never boastful, to be a true friend. My heart is filled with joy knowing how he touched my life over this last year. Lee truly defined what a friend should be. I will always remember him, but take pleasure in knowing that he is with the Lord and that we will see each other again some day in paradise. My prayers are with his family and the many others that Lee touched. Goodbye my friend. I miss you.
Kirk Matthews
July 11th 2007
ckirkmatthews@aol.com
My heart-felt prayers and thoughts go out to your family and friends. I never knew you personally but I learned to respect your driving on the track and how you handled yourself whether winning or losing. I had so much respect for you. Living over here on the east side of Michigan, many of us race fans admired and respected your on-track accomplishments. I've witnessed your racing accomplishments from Berlin to Owosso to Columbus and all points in-between. My buddy and I always picked 3 drivers to possible win for every 100 lap race we saw you in, and you were always one of my 3 picks. I'll remember you forever for being a winner.
Chris Koslek
July 11th 2007
kozwc05@hotmail.com
Lee has been my boss for the past year now as the time went on and people moved on i turned into his right hand man at the shop and sometimes it would be stressfull but he had the full confidence in me that i could get things done when he wasnt there and would not have to worry. He turned me into the fabricator i am today i could hadly do a thing until he tought me the "right" way to do things. He had a way to read a person and learn how to teach you where it would make you learn the most. He has tought me things i will never forget and every race we win in the car lee and i built together will be a testament of the knowledge he has passed on to me and the devotion he has tought me that you have to have to the sport. You will be missed, but NEVER forgotten lee...
Gary Lee Marble
July 11th 2007
outlaw4917@charter.net
From the very first time I met you, in your dads racing career when you were just a little boy. I watched you grow up into a fine young man following your father footsteps into a tremendous racer and friend.
I'll always remember you with those checked flags in your hand because you were a first place guy in everything you did and said, you will be truly missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Anderson family and to all of those who had the honor of being a friend of Lee.
Ryan Herrmann
July 10th 2007
countryboy78210@yahoo.com
Lee,
It tears me up knowing that i will never get to see you again. No more holidays at grandma's, no more trips to my mom and dad's cabin, and no more hanging out with you in the pits. You have so many people who love you. I've known you for 22 years and you were one of the best cousins, fathers, friends I will ever have known. I will cherish the time that I was blessed with to know you. God speed Lee. I will always love you.
Ryan
nicole
July 10th 2007
racing_babe_90@yahoo.com
i've known lee for a few years and he always had a big smile on his face... even win he lost a race i would go down in the pits and give him a hug and he would have that huge smile on his face
Lee i already miss you Berlin just isnt going to be the same without you out there.
Lee loved Kaileigh so much. she was the love of his life.
you made it to the finish line Lee..
i luv you buddy and i missyou
RIP forever young
Pat (Verhey) Raap
July 10th 2007
pat@raapsigns.com
I remember going to my Grandma Verheys house on Jones St and hearing stories of her little neighbor friend Lee. They sure did love him and his visits. That was many years ago. My heart goes out to your family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Jason Spicer
July 10th 2007
photoshooter76@yahoo.com
I got to know Lee when I was about 13 thru my sister and other friends in his class. Lee was someone different from most. He was someone I looked up to as my motocross love grew. I remember racing down to Walker pit to watch him ride. I remember digging with a shovel to make some biggers jumps for him to hit and do amazing things with that bike. And when he was ready to pack it up, he always made sure to say bye with that fingers out hand roll wave (something that will stick in my memories). Such an easy going guy that everbody loved and could never not like. It was too soon for you Lee, but you were needed somewhere else. We will all miss you and most of we will never forget you.
Jason
keith karwat & family
July 10th 2007
kakarwat@yahoo.com
lee im missing you. i im thinking of the good times we had. like packing down your starting line for your dirt bike raceing. that was fun. your a good racer....hunting at toms cabin.going to the races and seeing you win .and hering the fans cheer you on. i got a lot of good thoughts in my head and there not going no wear...... im going to miss you..when we run in to eachother again im kicking your butt for not geting my car done.....ha ha ha ....love ya lee......im going to miss laughing and jokeing with you...
dustin gibbs
July 10th 2007
buddylove33000@hotmail.com
man i dont know where to start he was a good friend to me he talk to me when i needed him i go to his shop and chill with him was the sweetest man i ever met he will never be forgotten ever thanks to him i will follow my dreams and be like him im sorry for the loss thanks to lee i can live life and reemeber what he told me............ rip my bestfriend 4 ever god bless the famly.........
Janna
July 10th 2007
jannaprice@sbcglobal.net
Not sure of the right words to say. Not sure where to go from here. Knowing that your name is stored in my phone and yet if I call there will be no answer. Not knowing that the last conversation I had with you would be our last, and the time we spent together we would never have again. Lee, you were put on this earth for such a brief stay yet you accomplished so much and touched so many lives. I remember you as a friend, I remember you as an amazing Father to Kaileigh, who cared so deeply for his little girl… she was your world. I feel so blessed to have been a part of your life here on earth. I will always remember you Lee. I miss you my friend.
Cassi & Andy Selders
July 10th 2007
tigsnursery@gmail.com
You will always be in our thoughts & hearts, you will be greatly missed by everyone. Andy & I will ALWAYS watch over your baby sister! I hope you always remember how messed up the republican party is! You know I would get the last one in, just kidding. We love you & we will see you up there some day! Love ya always!
Cassi & Andy
Berkley Petersen
July 10th 2007
eisberkley@environmentalinstallation.com
Even though I have only known Lee a very short time, I know that he is one of the nicest people I have ever met. Lee being a race car driver, my five year old daughter was sure that he was going to be able to introduce her to Jr. She thought she was so cool the day we went to ride go carts because she was racing against him. She still talks about it to this day.
Thank you so much for the memories Lee, you are missed very much. I will never forget you.
Love, Berkley
Stefanie Falstrom
July 10th 2007
sfgetthescoop@hotmail.com
Lee,
I was always so shy of you when I was young. You were always so sweet to me and got a good laugh that I was so shy. Then I grew up and wasn't shy of you. I started going to the races all of the time. I would brag to every person I knew that you were my cousin. When I watched you race I was filled with such a sense of pride. Everyone who knew you were so proud of you. Not just for the racing, but for the fact that they knew what a good friend you were, what a good father, son, brother, and grandson you were. You will be missed by every person whose lives you ever touched. We were all so lucky to have 33 wonderful years with you and we will always remember you until we join you in Heaven one day. I love you Lee and always will.
Love Stefanie
Dan Powers
July 10th 2007
danpowers@michiganinsurance.com
From our younger days at Crystal Raceway w/the whole Anderson family to banging bars when we raced together. From practice and play at the pit to races at the Silverdome. I'll never forget those days and they will always be some of my most cherished memories. Lee always had a great attitude and was always willing to help. He showed me a lot on and off the track.
God speed Lee and I hope you and Sr. (#3) will be rubbing fenders soon.
Kim Piccard
July 10th 2007
kimp@premarc.com
Lee was a great friend. He was always so full of energy and happiness. He always seemed larger than life to me, always willing to take a risk and do what he really wanted to do in life. I will miss him and that little smirk he always had.
One of the best memories I have is being in the room while Kaileigh was born. I will never forget the moment Lee looked at his daughter for the first time - he was so happy.
Lee was able to touch so many lives in such a short time - he will never be forgotten.
Aunt Sally
July 10th 2007
honeyhotfingers@yahoo.com
I'm not sure how I want to say what I am thinking and feeling right now. Margaret and I were talking about the memories we hold of you. She was remembering the time that I babysat you when the two of you went to pre-school together. I have pictures of the 2 of you riding your big wheels. One of you when the 2 of you were giving each other your bottles at Grandpa's (Don's) house in the kitchen. You will always be remembered in our thoughts and prayers. I know how much you meant to your mother and dad and Amy. They will miss your wonderful smile and your loving ways very much.
Love Aunt Sally and family
Megan (Niewiek) Richardson
July 10th 2007
MeganR182@gmail.com
A memory of Lee...
Lee Anderson is a name I've known for years around the racing world, but it wasn't until more recently when I had the opportunity to meet the real person he truly was. Lee and I have always checked in on eachother over the last couple of years - just to make sure that life was going well. And not too long ago, we started hanging out more and more...whether it was at the race track all day, me coming to visit him at his shop, him stopping by to take me to lunch or dinner, us going to watch Amy and her band with his parents, me sleeping on his bathroom floor, us heading to Toledo, spending time together relaxing, talking on the phone for 3 hours at a time, finding out that it takes him 2-1/2 hours to change a tire on my car and me promising never to tell anyone, or just exhanging goofy emails with him every day...
Lee loved Kaileigh more than life itself...she was his world.
She is the best part of Lee!
The last day I spent with Lee was 4th of July at the M40 race. It was a day I am so thankful I had and I will never forget it!
Lee was a wonderful friend to me, and I'll always cherish the time we had together. I am so thankful for all the memories and that he has always been there for me. Lee will always have a special place in my heart and I will never forget him.
Lee, I'm sure going to miss you, buddy.
Aunt Martha Chase (Anderson)
July 10th 2007
marocky@altelco.net
I will sorely miss you Lee. You were a kind-hearted person who would do anything for anyone. I have so many memories of you growing up. I thank God that we had you in our lives for 33 years. I know that you were reaching out in the past few months to bring family closer and I'm thankful for that. Marshall was saying that the reason you had to leave is because Chris (Bradley) needed a driver up in heaven and Earnhart wasn't working out. My heart and prayers go out to Den & Deb and our whole family. I love you all, and I love you Lee. Love, Aunt Martha & Uncle Marshall
Jim Jamison
July 10th 2007
jjamison@chartermi.net
Lee was a true friend to all that met him and was a great racer. Lee had a good business going for racing and will be truly missed. May God Speed.
RC & Julie Freiberg
July 10th 2007
freibergj@comcast.net
My husband RC met Lee in Kindergarden. They became close friends at a very young age. They spent many weekends traveling to the race tracks with Denny & Debbie. One of the memories that I love to relive was at 5th grade Camp Newaygo when all the girls were "in love" with Lee. Lee of course just smiled his usuall smirk and brushed it off. The remainder of his life was no different, everyone loved Lee. He was the best kind of friend you could ever ask for. He will be greatly missed by all. To the Anderson Family, Tara & Kaileigh, you are in our prayers to help you through this difficult time.
Michelle Rodriguez
July 10th 2007
Lee thought he would show my husband Derrick a fun time one night. So they headed to a bar on Lake Michigan Drive that has 'entertainment'. Well, luckily they realized in the parking lot that it was 'ladies night'! Boy would they have looked foolish going in there together! We have so many great memories of Lee. We will miss him terribly. He remained a part of our family through Kaileigh. We will always do our best to let her know what an awesome Daddy Lee was. He was a great driver, dedicated dad, and a friend to many. Lee, we miss you already and you will remain in our hearts forever!
Michelle, Derrick, Melina, & Gabrielle.
Dan Talsma
July 10th 2007
I didn't know Lee very well, but he knew me when he would see me at various race tracks. He always had a smile on his face and time to chat. My best memory was Lee winning the Klash and having a hard time in post race tech. I will not name anyone, but there were some people calling Lee every name in the book, and Lee never flinched. He just stayed as humble as he always was, and took that 20 grand that he won fair and square! Thank you Lee for all the thrills, you will be missed greatly. May the Lord be with your family and loved ones.
Bridget Julien
July 9th 2007
In the short time I've known Lee I've learned that he was a great person. Very caring, light hearted, kind, and very funny. I've laughed pretty hard at some of the stories I've heard. Anyone hit a car full of mexicans lately?? I asked Lee recently if he were still a "nice" guy. His response was....."Depends on who you ask, but most of the time...yes."
Lee....did you ever find my purse?? ha ha ;o) I regret not being able to see you race this summer. That was definitely on my list of things to do!! Very glad that Cort was able to see you last week. I'll take care of him for you and make sure he always has a D.D. You told me time and time again about getting together and needing a "responsible" person because you two had way too much fun!! In your words "It can get out of hand...you never know what's going to happen."
You were very loved and will be missed!!
God Speed Lee Anderson
Rob Robinson, wife Tina, and Family
July 9th 2007
robibc@hotmail.com
As the brother in law to one of Lee's closest friends, Kurt Dietrich, I had the pleasure of meeting Lee on a few different occasions. This gentlemen was a class act, always had a smile on his face, and for that, he will sadly be missed. Heck of a driver, Heck of a person....
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Anderson family and to all of those who had the great honor of being a friend to this individual.
Cort Corwin
July 9th 2007
ccorwin@adacautomotive.com
""Learn from yesterday, live for today, and hope for tomorrow.""
