"This is a Great loss! She was an Amazing woman and she will be GREATLY missed! Renee"
In loving memory of
Laura Hazel Enchoff Lee
November 27, 1924 - December 27, 2020
Laura Hazel Enchoff Garoutte Lee passed away on December 27th, 2020 at the age of 96. Born on November 27th, 1924 to Minnie Reed Williams and Thomas Enchoff at Crow Agency, Montana.
She is survived by her daughter Patricia Jean Garoutte, her son, James "Butch" Garoutte, 14 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren. Laura is preceded in death by 5 half-siblings, James Garoutte (divorced), Many Lee (husband), Viki Herndon (daughter) and Robert Garoutte (son).
Laura wore many hats over her 96 years. While raising her four children, she worked on a ranch and a coal mine, ran a confectionary, and was a real estate agent. She was also a teacher, storyteller and healer. She loved to teach and taught everywhere from a rural one room schoolhouse in Grantsdale, Montana to teaching English for two years in Lima, Peru. She worked at the University of Montana and received a Masters Degree in Special Education from Eastern New Mexico University. She had a love for travel which took her to many places around the globe. However, she never lost touch with her Native American Heritage.
The last two decades of her life was spent on researching and writing two books. The first book was written with her husband Many about his experiences as a Darby Ranger in WWII. The second book was a biographical tribute to her Mother and the work she did with the Crow Tribe.
Stories, songs, love for learning and years of working in the healing arts will be her lasting legacy.
Laura Lee was young at heart until the day she passed, leaving a wonderful example for 5 generations and numerous friends to follow.
A Memorial Celebration will be held March 20th, 2021. The location and details are to be announced by Cindy Dilsaver, her granddaughter: (435) 621-3231.