Beverly Lee

Beverly Elizabeth (Eggen) Lee, age 85 of Mankato, passed away Thursday, July 16, 2020 at Mayo Clinic Health Systems in Mankato. Beverly was born December 12, 1934, in Austin, to Walter and Clarise (Hanson) Eggen.  She was raised on the family farm with her two older siblings near Lyle, MN.  Beverly was baptized at home, was confirmed, and married at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church, a quarter mile from the homestead.

She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree from Luther College in Decorah, IA and pursued additional graduate work at Mankato State University. In 1958, Beverly was married to Lawrence Lee and made their homes in Otisco, Waseca, and Mankato, MN.  They later divorced.  As a family, they often traveled across the country by plane.  As a member of the MN 99’s, Beverly was one of four women in Mankato, who earned their private pilot’s license in the early 1970’s.  Beverly was an Elementary teacher in Albert Lea and Waseca, MN.  After moving to Mankato, she worked in the Development office at Gustavus Adolphus College, where she was involved with the Nobel Conference every year.  Beverly became a counselor in the Department of Community Corrections & Mental Health of Blue Earth County.  Later, while at Immanuel/St. Joseph’s Hospital, now known as Mayo Clinic Health System, she developed a Substance Abuse/Dependency Program for Women and Children. The program was recognized by Governor Carlson of MN.  After her retirement, she volunteered and worked at the AGAIN Thrift Store, where she took great pleasure in taking care of their antique section.  Beverly was a long-time member of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Mankato. She participated in choir, was Sunday school co-superintendent, and enjoyed her spot in the second pew on the left, during church services. “The Lord has been with me throughout my life. Whether I live or die, I am the Lord’s.”

Beverly is survived by her children, Alan (Carolyn) Lee, Wendy Lee and her fiancé Scott Albright; grandchildren, Christopher (Sarah) Lee, Samantha Lee, and Elena (Tony) Schlie-Olson; two great-grandchildren, Jordan and Paityn Olson; nieces and nephews. Beverly was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Elaine, and brother Merle.

A drive thru visitation will be held at Christ the King, on Wednesday July 22, from 7:00-8:00 pm.  A private memorial service will be held on Thursday July 23, at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Mankato, MN. Interment will take place at Six Mile Grove Cemetery in Lyle, MN later that day. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to both Christ the King Lutheran Church and Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church.  Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.