Lee Sorensen

Lee Earl Sorensen, 71, of Shelby, Iowa, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Lee was born on February 27, 1954, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Earl and Norma Sorensen of Avoca. He was raised on the family farm between Avoca and Walnut, Iowa, and graduated in 1972 from Avoca High School, where he excelled playing basketball and baseball.

He dedicated much of his career to serving others, working as a dispatcher for the Iowa State Patrol. For 13 years, he owned and operated Lee's Sports and Hometown Variety in Logan, Iowa, before later working as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service.

Lee's life was defined by his deep love and loyalty to his family and friends. He devoted himself to caring for his aging mother and was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. Known for his kindness and humor, Lee touched the lives of many. He loved animals-especially his cats-and earned the affectionate nickname "the Candyman" from his oncology nurses for his thoughtful generosity. He enjoyed playing darts, cards, and watching football, and will be remembered as both a fierce competitor and a loyal fan.

Lee is survived by his fiancée and longtime companion, Sandi McDonald of Shelby; his sister, Kay Bergonzi of Loveland, Colorado; his children Nicole (Nikki) and Jarrid Hohensee of Hutto, Texas, Anthony (Tony) Sorensen and April Steffen of Crescent, Iowa, and Calli and Cody Smith of Crescent, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Taylor and Keeton Hohensee; McKenna, Brooklyn, and William Sorensen, Mya and Lainey Smith; and his first great-granddaughter, Wrenna Soren Hohensee; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Norma Sorensen; his sister, Rita Zientek; and his son, Benjamin Earl Sorensen.

Lee will be dearly missed by his family and friends, who will always remember his generous spirit, devotion, and love.

Please join the family for a casual gathering to celebrate and give a toast to Lee on Sunday, September 7th from 12:00pm to 2:00pm at The Warehouse Event Venue, 1414 West Broadway, Council Bluffs, IA 51501. Any memorial gifts for Lee will be thoughtfully cared for by the family.