Obituary of Lee Gorby

Lee Gorby (68), chemist, bicycle enthusiast, and recreational league basketball all-star, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2021, at his home in Cottonwood, AZ.

Lee was born in Morris, Illinois on November 22, 1952, to Oliver and Gloria Gorby.  Lee graduated from West Fargo High School, where his love of softball and basketball started. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from North Dakota State University and went on to earn a Master of Science from the University of Montana.  He moved to Cottonwood in 1981 to begin his career at the Phoenix Cement Company. 

Lee had a passion for history, sports, rock music and the outdoors.  He could be seen riding his bike daily around Cottonwood and was recognized by Dead Horse Ranch State Park for riding his bike 365 consecutive days, rain or shine on the Thunder Loop.  Known as the General in the city recreational basketball league, he was always ready to share his love for the game.

Lee is survived by his loving wife and partner of 28 years, Yolanda; stepdaughters Natalie, Stephanie and Angela; mother Gloria; brother Philip and his wife Lesley; brother Andrew; nieces Ashley and Haley.

He was a very special and humble human being who touched so many lives. His family will miss him terribly. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday July 31, 2021, from 1:00pm – 5:00pm at the Cottonwood Club House 805 N. Main Street, Cottonwood AZ 86326.

In remembrance of Lee Gorby’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the following organizations: