Lee Mauroni

Lee Mauroni of Parkdale died peacefully at the age of 82 with his devoted, loving wife and family at his side on March 17, 2008.

Leroy Eugene Mauroni was born on September 9, 1925 in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania to Josephine Busatto Mauroni and Carlos Mauroni. Lee was the youngest child of four. He is survived by his brothers John and Albert and sister Elenor.

Lee started playing music at a young age, around 15 he played in a dance band with his brothers. He enjoyed listening to classical and thought no one could sing as well as Perry Como.

Lee was drafted for WWII he trained with the Air Corps, but before he was called to duty the war ended.

Knowing that higher education was important for his future Lee went to Ducaine University in Pennsylvania where he earned his teaching degree on the GI bill.

The summer after graduating Lee toured with a band to the Midwest where his manager escaped with the band’s money in Idaho leaving them broke.

Having earned a teaching degree in Pennsylvania, Lee was hired on through an agency. His first assignment was in Weippe, Idaho. While in Weippe, one of Mary’s friends introduced the two of them; it wasn’t until he transferred to Orofino that they started dating and eventually were married on August 14, 1952.

Lee taught music for 25 years and went back to school to earn his masters in reading from Portland State University. He taught at a number of schools for a total of 35 years, two of them were Wy’ East and Hood River High School respectively.

Lee and Mary had four children Lisa, Michael, Mark and Linda. Lee had a strong presence in his children’s lives, always there to guide and teach.

Lee sang with St. Mary’s Choir for many years. He was a square dance caller for Wy’ East Whirlers, Rhineland Quadrilles, Jeans & Calico and the Parkdale Promenaders; he was also a member of the Elks Club.

Lee is survived by his wife Mary; two daughters Lisa of Hood River and Linda of Eagan, Minnesota; son Michael and wife Christina of Corvallis, Oregon; grandchildren Josh and Lindsey of Eagan, Minnesota and Marcus of Manning, Alberta Canada. Lee was preceded in death by his son Mark.

Lee lived a productive life touching the lives of the people he taught, and everyone that greatly loved him. Lee gave us laughter with his dry wit; we looked forward to every moment not knowing what he would say next. He filled our hearts with love and gave us cherished memories that we will hold dear forever. Lee was a great man and he will be missed.

Anderson's Tribute Center (Funerals • Receptions • Cremations) 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031 ~ 541-386-1000 ~ www.andersonstributecenter.com.