William Lee Wulfemeyer, 78, passed away August 30, 2021, at the Pleasant Hills Assisted Living Facility. He was a resident of Abbyville. Lee was born November 9, 1942, in Hutchinson, to Ray and Ernestine Wulfemeyer.
He was a graduate of Fairfield North High School, prior to district consolidation. Lee graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Natural Sciences. He worked briefly for Hercules Inc. at the Sunflower Ammunition Plant as a chemist before returning to Abbyville to farm and ranch with his father, Ray. Lee, as he was known by all, played on the township basketball team. On June 17, 1978, he married Janet Elaine Johnson. Part of this blessed union included becoming the father of 13-year-old Troy. Three years later, he and Jan became proud parents of Julie, completing the set. For a time, the family split time between Haven and Abbyville, as Lee continued farming and ranching and Jan worked in Wichita. Following Julie’s graduation from high school, Lee and Jan moved back to Abbyville permanently, eventually settling into his childhood home upon the death of his father. Lee began and oversaw the transition of the chicken coop that he collected eggs from as a child into the Red Roost, his own entertainment venue modelled after a 1950’s honky-tonk, which hosted numerous live bands and dancing events for friends and family of all ages. When not helping friends and family, he was often seen driving around with his beloved dog, Willie. Both were usually wearing ball caps. Lee suffered a stroke in 2018 and spent time recuperating at Thorne Care Center at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson and at home, being cared for by his wife. He eventually required the supportive services at Pleasant Hills Assisted Living Facility, where he passed away under the loving eyes of his family.
Lee is survived by: wife, Jan, of the home; son Troy, Kansas City, Missouri; daughter, Julie, Mankato, Minnesota; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be 10 a.m. Friday, September 3, 2021, at Abbyville Community Church. For the safety of all, masks will be required. Those experiencing symptoms are asked not to attend. Burial will follow at a later date in the Abbyville Cemetery.