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Lee Edward Fassett, age 89, of Mendon, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Birch Meadows AFC in Three Rivers. He was born in Hastings on November 2, 1936, the son of Burr and Hilna (Benson) Fassett. Lee attended Hastings High School and was part of the 1954 graduating class. Following high school, Lee attended Western Michigan University, where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in guidance and personnel services. While attending WMU, Lee met the love of his life, Eleanor “Ellie” Large, at a Weslyan Foundation event. They were married on June 28, 1959 at Calvary Methodist Church in Detroit.
He began his career in education at Richland Elementary. He went on to teach at Portage Public Schools, was a counselor at Kersley Schools in Flint, and principal at Mendon Elementary School for 26 years. In 1984 he was honored as “Outstanding Practicing Principal of the Year”. Following retirement, he acted as interim superintendent at Constantine High School and interim principal at Andrews Elementary in Three Rivers. Lee was a member of the Kiwanis Club for 58 years and participated in the Mendon Showboat for more than 50 years.
Lee was a member of the Mendon United Methodist Church, where he served in various leadership roles. He was a true layperson, teaching Sunday school, running youth groups, volunteering on many boards/councils, and spreading his love and faith. Somehow, in between his educational teachings and his faithful teachings, he and Ellie would volunteer mission work at the Henderson Settlement in Frakes, KY providing food, clothing, housing, education, and the hope of Christ to others. Also, Lee and Ellie attended Eaton Rapids Holiness Camp for several summers, where they served and deepened their faith . Hobbies included gardening, fishing, hunting, and spending quality time outdoors. Lee is respected by many for his dedication to the youth, cherished for his teachings of devotion and faith, and LOVED by his family and friends who had the privilege to witness such a wonderful man.
Lee is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Ellie Fassett; three children; Jim (Peggy) Fassett, Cheryl Becksford, and Ken (Pam) Fassett; nine grandchildren; Jeremy (Lori) Fassett, Mandy (Justin) Johnson, Samantha Poll, Jake Fassett, Kayla (Tim) Irland, Brittany (Alyssa) Voort, Ryan Becksford, Levi (Bree) Fassett, and Leah (Joe) Dudka; ten great-grandchildren and counting; siblings; Clair Fassett and Linda Fassett; and many nieces, nephews, and extended families. He was preceded in passing by his parents; Burr and Hilna Fassett; and two siblings; Lois Martz and Nyle Fassett.
Keeping with Lee’s wishes, cremation is being conducted. Visitation for Lee will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 1 until 4pm at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072). Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 2pm at the Mendon United Methodist Church (320 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072) with Pastor Carl Litchfield officiating. It is suggested that donations made in Lee’s name be directed to Mendon United Methodist Church or Mendon Elementary School. Condolences and memories may be expressed to his family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
