It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the Rev. John Young-Jung Lee on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. He was a beloved husband to Young Sook Lee, and a devoted father to the Rev. Hannah Lee. He was predeceased by his parents, the Rev. Hai Young Lee and Sun Ja Kang and is survived by his many siblings, nieces, and nephews.

John Young-Jung Lee was born in South Korea, where he spent the early years of his life and studied medicine, and architecture at Seoul National University, and developed strong life-long friendships. Later, he met Young Sook, a fellow architect, and moved to Toronto, Canada. Their 47 years of marriage were a testament to their deep love and companionship. He adored Hannah and cherished her from the moment of her birth. Together, they built a life rich with memories and shared experiences.

His call to ministry came in his early life, where he witnessed his father, a minister and former Moderator of PROK, devote his life to the church’s ministry and human rights. This call was insistent and persistent, and finally with his family’s support, he was able to answer, “YES.” He delighted in theological studies at Emmanuel College (University of Toronto) and found joy in ordained ministry. He served the faith communities at Cawthra Park, Victoria Village, True Davidson, North York General Hospital, and Dentonia Park United Church. He served the wider church as President of Toronto Conference, Chair of Presbytery, CANAAT, General Council, and various groups. He was charismatic and gifted, devoted to the Church’s ministry and mission, and was passionate about justice and human rights. He was a published author, writing about living a Christ-based life in our contemporary context. He strongly believed in supporting colleagues in ministry, setting up a grant fund, and spending countless hours to help others. He lived a faithful and faith-filled life of love and service to God and others.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life for the Rev. John Young-Jung Lee on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at York Funeral Centre at 160 Beecroft Ave., Toronto, Ontario. The visitation is at 1pm, service at 2pm, with burial and reception to follow.