It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Holman Thieu Poa Lee, age 51, who passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, surrounded by his family.

Born on June 7th, 1973, in Seoul, South Korea, Paul's early life was marked by significant transition. Following the death of his birth mother when he was three years of age, he was embraced by his adoptive parents, Arnold and Kristin Lee, who brought him to the United States. He spent his formative years in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, graduating from East Grand Rapids High School. During this time, he enjoyed taking his friends waterskiing on Reeds Lake, playing football, or just spending time with friends. Paul was also known for his sharp sense of humor and his ability to lighten the mood no matter the situation.

After returning from Western Michigan University, Paul embarked on a path of entrepreneurial engagement within his community. He became actively involved with the East Hills Council of Neighbors, contributing to the revitalization efforts in the Wealthy Street area of Grand Rapids. In partnership with his wife, Jessica Lee, they established three popular restaurants within the East Hills neighborhood; Winchester, Donkey, and Hancock.

Beyond his professional endeavors, he was a cherished husband to his wife Jessica, and father to his three sons: Oscar, Harvey, and Otis. He loved waking early and taking the boys to breakfast on the weekends. He valued his family time and actively sought opportunities for family adventures and authentic experiences. As an avid cyclist, he never passed up an opportunity to ride with friends, or to challenge himself with various endurance related rides. Those who knew Paul also appreciated his adventurous spirit when it came to food. He embraced the opportunity to learn about local cuisine wherever his travels took him, often looking off the beaten path to learn where the locals connected.

Paul received his cancer diagnosis in 2016. He never let his diagnosis define who he was, and lent his support to other survivors along the way. He was always willing to share his experiences with those who sought his input. Never allowing his condition to limit his experiences or his time with friends and family, he lived his life to the fullest.

Paul is survived by his wife, Jessica; his sons, Oscar (13), Harvey (11), and Otis (9); his parents, Arnold and Kristin Lee; and his siblings, Jamie Lee, Karla Barberi, Andrea Crudder, Katherine Kehoe, Rachel Lee, Denise Gunn, Mike Lee, and Jennifer Wright-Veltman. He is also remembered by numerous nieces and nephews and other extended family.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Norman Lee (2005), his grandmother, Dorsie Lee (2025), and his brother, Scott Lee (1996).

A funeral service will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle in Grand Rapids on Thursday, May 8th, at 10:30 am, followed by a luncheon. Friends and family are invited to attend a visitation at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton Street SE, Grand Rapids, on Wednesday, May 7th, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 16th from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at Eastern Avenue Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul's honor may be made to START Midwest - Center for Cancer Research.

Paul will be remembered for his community spirit, his entrepreneurial drive, and the deep love he held for his family.