Lee Charles Baltezore, 73, of Lebanon (formerly a long time resident of Sweet Home) went to be with his Lord around 8:00 a.m., on Friday. He was born in Hermosa Beach, California to Clarence “Pete” Chester and Lillie Lane (Donahue) Baltezore.

Lee was a hard-working man who used his skills as a diesel mechanic in the farming, lumber, and trucking industries.

His family was his number one priority. All little children and babies found their way to his lap as soon as he saw them. He loved his family and friends passionately. Not only did he have 11 children, but many other people called him Dad. It was part of who he was to befriend, care for, and nurture those that found their way to his home. No person was refused a place to stay or a meal.

Through the years he could often be found camping or fishing with his family. He was an outdoorsman who passed his love for nature to his children. Lee was also an excellent cook and no camping trip or holiday passed without the smell of eggs and bacon or turkey wafting through the air.

“I love you and if I don’t see you tomorrow, know that I love you.” – Lee C. Baltezore

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Marie Baltezore of Lebanon; two sisters Daisy Shaw of Klamath Falls and Alice Shuey of Kerman, CA; 11 children Lawana Pilkington of Redding, CA; Cooper Baltezore of Perris, CA; Janie Lee Baltezore of Perris, CA; Patricia Latchford of Perris, CA; Helen Stanley of Las Vegas, NV; December Miller of Patterson, AR; Bonnie Sterling of Benton, AR; Trudy Baltezore of Batesville, AR; Donald Baltezore of Lebanon, OR; Tony Fernandez Baltezore of Albany, OR; and Floyd Baltezore of Lebanon, OR as well as 42 grandkids and a growing number of great grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester (Pete) and Lilly Baltezore, and his three brothers, Darrell Baltezore, Doug Baltezore, and Donald Baltezore.

Viewing will be at noon Monday, December 28, with the funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m., at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel. Final burial will be at Gilliland Cemetery.

Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.