Obituary of Lee Robert Hakel

Lee Robert Hakel, 71 of St. Paul, MN, passed away August 10th, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Born on March 12, 1952, in Roseville, MN, he was the son of Milton and Emily Hakel. Lee was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Roy and Kenneth Hakel and his grandson, Christopher Hakel. Lee is survived by his sons, Robert (Priscilla) and Daniel (Joni) Hakel; grandchildren, Tanya, Tanda, Tara, Tia, Sarah, Kristina, Tyler, Arianna and great grandchildren; Adrian, Ava, Malena, Hazel, Rhys, Lorelei and Miles. He also leaves behind his brother; Milton (Lee) Hakel and sister Karen Hakel.

Lee graduated from Mounds View High School in Mounds View, MN in 1970. He had a successful career, working at Interplastic Corporation (St. Paul), where he was a strong union blue collar worker who earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends. In his free time, Lee held a passion for all things creative; he often visited Como Park to listen to live music in addition to being an avid coloring artist. Lee also found solace and relaxation in the quiet pursuit of word finds; his nimble mind always seeking new challenges within the pages of the puzzles. He spent every day looking forward to his health walks and was diligent in taking in the beauty of nature that the world had to offer. He would often take his health walk to savor in some of his favorite meals from Taco Bell and White Castle.

Christmas was Lee’s favorite time of year, and he held a true passion for the magical nature of the season. Lee thrived in hosting a spectacular Christmas party every year for his family, with immaculate displays and extravagant décor encrusted from floor to ceiling, with his preparation to decorate often starting in July, Christmas was the time of year he looked forward to bringing warmth and cheer to his family and beyond.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and cherished memories that will continue to inspire and comfort those who had the privilege of knowing him. Lee will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to share memories of Lee at his celebration of life from 12-3pm on Sunday, September 10th at the Dock & Paddle Café (3rd Floor-Waterfall Room) located within the Como Lakeside Pavilion; 1360 Lexington Pkwy N, St Paul, MN 55103. Luncheon to be provided. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Lee’s memory can be made to Keystone Community Services, Donate – Keystone Community Services (keystoneservices.org)