A proper send off for Eric Lee

After the passing of Eric Lee, former Kingston mayoral candidate and well-known locally as 'The Elevator Guy' from his years at S&R Department Store, it was found that Lee had no next of kin to claim his body or arrange for proper end-of-life services.
After putting out a call for next of kin or a claimant to come forward, it was determined no one individual would take on the role. But in true Kingston style, members of the community have stepped up to do right by the "Kingston icon" and ensure Mr. Lee is given a proper send off.

Rick Lawrence of Tompkins Funeral Home in Gananoque has offered to oversee the cremation of Mr. Lee, and is working with one of Lee's former neighbours, as well as local authorities, and myself to coordinate a respectful memorial and final resting place for Mr. Lee.

At this time, plans have not been finalized, but we will ensure the public is made aware when all arrangements have been made.

Having said that, there are several costs that need to be covered, including: an urn, a final interment location and associated fees, and the nominal fees for a public memorial service.

Given how well-known and -loved Mr. Lee was in Kingston, we are hoping members of the community will help out with covering these costs if they are able. We've made our fundraising goal $7,000 to ensure all costs are covered, and any funds raised over and above costs incurred will go directly to Kingston's Partners in Mission Food Bank.

We will update with new information and the time and place of the memorial service as those details are confirmed.

To read Eric Lee's formal obituary, click here .

To read the follow-up story regarding the need to locate a claimant or next of kin, click here .

Any questions or concerns can be directed to me.

Let's come together and give Eric the respect and last services we all deserve, Kingston!

-Tori Stafford

Disclaimer: I, Tori Stafford, am solely responsible for the withdrawal and delivery of funds for final expenses.