Lee Waddle

NEW BUFFALO     His war against cancer began in 2008 and after winning many battles God called his brave soldier home on May 26, 2014, to rest without pain. His beloved wife Sherri fought by his side until the end. Lee was born in Anderson, IN, on June 22, 1942, the only child of the late Roy & Elva (Westerfield) Waddle. After his father passed his mother married the late Ken Stough. Lee graduated from Ben Davis High School, Indianapolis. In 1982 he married the love of his life, Sherri Reid in Nashville, TN. His dream of owning a restaurant came true when they opened Hannah’s in New Buffalo in1986. It was his “2nd” home for 23 years. Lee was the consummate restaurateur and delighted welcoming guests-“It’s like coming home” was his credo. Lee felt blessed to meet & work with so many wonderful people over the years. He took great pride in helping guests celebrate special occasions from proms & weddings to memorial celebrations. As life transitioned he helped open the new Martin’s Supermarket in Stevensville where he was the Wine & Spirits Manager. Lee enjoyed helping local organizations including the Berrien County American Red Cross, Blossomtime & the Michiana Humane Society. Traveling & golfing with Sherri gave him great pleasure and he enjoyed the beautiful scenery especially in Northern MI. Lee is survived by his children, Tawnja (Dennis) Dove & Rick (Janine) Waddle of Florida & Mike (Vanessa) Waddle of Ohio. He has an extended family of grandchildren & great grandchildren. Also surviving are brother-in-law Gorden Reid & sister-in-laws Stacy Coleman & Roxanne Allman. Very special thanks for taking special care of him go to Dr. James Pickford of IU Health La Porte and Dr. David Vanderweele at the University of Chicago, and wonderful neighbors, Jaime & Julie Flick, along with so many, many others. Friends are invited to visit at Sommerfeld Chapel in New Buffalo on Wednesday, June 4th from 4-6 P.M.  A service to celebrate Lee’s life will follow at 6:00 P.M. officiated by Pastor David Stout. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Michigan City Animal Hospital, 2525 E. Michigan Blvd, Michigan City, IN to the doggies care fund or to the Michiana Humane Society. His most adoring & devoted fans always loved him unconditionally and had a wag or kiss for him no matter what. Poppa’s in heaven with his dachshund angels, “Waddle’s Weiners”-Manfred, Gussie, Charlie, Max, Millie, Mike, Hannah & Hank. Staying behind to protect Mommy are Rose, Kenny, Spike & his cherished Papillion Rudy “Toot”. You fought so hard & brave to stay with us, we’re so proud of you & Love You forever. See you, see you soon Poppa.