IRA LEVI “LEE” ALMAN
Ira Levi “Lee” Alman died peacefully at home entering heaven to join his family and Heavenly Father on September 12th, 2013 at the age of 93.
Born June 28th, 1920 to Avold and Minnie Alman, Lee grew up in Colfax, Wisconsin with two older brothers, Jarvis and Sylvester, and one younger sister, Marcella. He worked hard on his family’s tobacco and grain farm but loved playing basketball, football, and boxing at Colfax High School where he graduated in 1938. During this time, he took championship honors at the Eau Claire Golden Gloves boxing tournament. In 1943 he became a pilot in the United States Navy.
In 1947 Lee moved to California and became a carpenter. He built many apartment buildings and homes in California and Wisconsin.
Lee married Dorothy (Dottie) Schaack on October 8th 1949 and had two children Linda and Larry. They lived in Southern California until 1963 when they moved to Lakeport, which Lee considered to be “right on the edge of paradise”. Lee and Dottie owned and operated Hillcrest Park Resort on Lakeshore Blvd. for many years. During those younger years, Lee loved fishing and slalom waterskiing on Clear Lake. With his green thumb, Lee enjoyed gardening and growing corn and tomatoes. He spent many years relaxing and enjoying the sunsets and twilight hours at the lake.
After he “retired” Lee helped build homes for Linda, Larry and their families.
Into his 90’s, Lee was up with the sun and always working hard. You could catch him singing oldies with his delightful singing voice, reciting poems, reminiscing about his childhood and passing along words of wisdom. Everybody’s friend, Lee had a great sense of humor and especially loved discussing various news topics with whoever had an open ear. His most notable question to ask was, “Do you know what the speed of light is? 186,000 miles per second!”
Lee was devoted to his family and helped them in so many ways! He inspired us all with his physical, mental, and spiritual strength. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Dottie Alman, his children Linda Sheffert (Joe), Larry Alman, and his grandchildren Leighton McCormack (Remy), Edward McCormack, Honey Obymako (Curtis), Christy Smith (Jonathan), as well as many great-grandchildren.
As a thank you for their support and care, donations can be made to Hospice Services of Lake County, CA. Upon his request no services will be held.