University of South Dakota Athletics

History

Dean H. Lee was born on May 21, 1925, in Vermillion, S.D., to Hubert and Doa (Chaussee) Lee. He graduated from Vermillion High School and enlisted in the US Navy Feb. 6, 1943, at the age of 17. Dean served on-board two ships in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II. He was honorably discharged on April 18, 1946. Dean married Forence Jacobsen in Vermillion on Feb. 5, 1947. He joined his father in Lee Oil Company and operated the company until his retirement in 1982. Dean was President of the South Dakota Independent Oil Men's Association, a long-time member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and Our Savior's Luthern Church.

He was an avid lifelong supporter of the University of South Dakota athletics. Whether supporting the athletic program on the court, field or track, Dean was a willing volunteer and true Coyote fan. Dean Lee passed away on May 31, 2008, in Sioux Falls, S.D.

Fund Notes

Started in 2009, earnings are to be used to provide undergraduate scholarships for students enrolled in or accepted by USD and meet all requirements to be a student in good standing. A student who is a recipient one year is eligible for consideration in any other year.