Doyle Kay Lee

Doyle K. Lee, 95, passed away in his own home, surrounded by his daughters on October 5, 2026, in Moses Lake, Washington. 

Born on May 30, 1931, in Rigby, Idaho, Kay lived a long life marked by dedicated work, military service, and a wide range of interests that remained with him through the years. Shortly after graduating from high school in 1950, he entered the United States Army, serving from 1951 until 1953 during the Korean War era. Although his service took place while stationed in Germany, his time in the Army reflected an important chapter in his early adult life. After completing active duty, he continued his commitment through the Army Reserves, where he served until 1957. 

While still living in Idaho, Kay married Joyce Holmquist. He and Joyce began their family with three daughters, Kayla, born in 1957; Karla, born in 1959 and Carol born in 1961. But their family was not complete until their youngest child was born in 1972. Finally a son, William "Bill" K. Lee.

Kay’s working life developed through several jobs in his younger years before he found a lasting professional path in the early 1960s with the then-named America Potato Company in Blackfoot, Idaho. His ability and experience quickly led to advancement, and in 1965 he was promoted and transferred to the company’s operations in Moses Lake, Washington. He remained with the company as it became Basic American Foods, building a career as a granule specialist and later serving as a Production Manager. 

His work with Basic American Foods extended beyond the local plant and brought him into the company’s broader national and international efforts. Kay traveled to London, England, and Warsaw, Poland, where he worked with colleagues to enhance production lines overseas. By the time of his retirement, he had established a record of leadership and technical knowledge and had helped lay the foundation for the high-quality standards and service for which the company was known. 

Beyond his career, Kay devoted time to many interests over the course of his life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, camping, and bowling. He also took part in pool and darts leagues, pursuits that reflected both his competitive spirit, and using his “concentration and coordination” skill set. In quieter moments, he followed the Seattle Seahawks and enjoyed watching his favorite golf professional, Tiger Woods. His hobbies also included coin collecting and acrylic painting, especially wildlife subjects. 

Kay is survived by his children, Karla (Alex) Hansen and Carol (Mike) Wyman; and a son-in-law, Russell Harrison. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Alan (Lindsey) Hansen, Stacey Harrison, Rachel Harrison, and Aaron (Danielle) Wyman, as well as several great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Lee; his son, Bill Lee; his oldest daughter, Kayla Harrison; and his grandson, Dale Hansen. 

Kay will be remembered in the enduring record of his years of service, his long career, and the many activities that filled his life. His memory remains with those who knew him. A Graveside Service will be held on November 14, 2026, at 01:00 PM at Pioneer Memorial Cemetery 14403 Rd 2 NE., Moses Lake, WA.There will also be a reception following the service at the Chapel located on the same grounds.