With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Lee Roy Rovik announces his

passing on June 15, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri at the age of 83. Born to Lee and Anna

Rovik on December 13, 1942, in Chicago, IL, Lee lived the life he wanted to live; one

marked by a strong presence, quick wit, a boisterous voice, and a shock of shiny silver hair

that made him hard to miss.

A proud graduate of Missouri Military Academy and Loyala University, Lee remained close

with his classmates for more than 70 years. He served during the Vietnam era and wore his

veteran's hat loudly and proudly, especially on Veterans Day. Never shy about swapping

stories, asking fellow veterans about their rank or station, and often saying with relief and

pride “I never got shot at and I never had to shoot anybody.” Intelligent and endlessly

curious, Lee was the person you called when you needed an answer and the full

explanation around it.

Lee survived his wife of 18 years, Bette Jean Morts-Rovik, one brother, Joe Rovik, and

girlfriend of 30 years, Adele Sellers.

Lee’s working life was as varied as his interests: painter, accountant, photographer, and

many roles in between. He made his way through Chicago, IL; Fulton, MO; Orlando, FL;

Mobile, AL and Camdenton, MO, before his final chapter in Kansas City,MO. He adored

animals, especially cats and dogs. At one time he lovingly trained and kept seven

Pomeranians and two cats. He gardened every vegetable he could coax from the soil and

filled his yard with flowers. In the kitchen, he baked breads, explored Asian cuisine, and

simmered soups and stews, always enough to feed an army, even if he was just cooking for

one. An enthusiast of pistols and hunting rifles, he was always prepared for an emergency.

He delighted in teaching, one specific interest was soap. Lee liked to share the craft and

science of soap making, in every shape, size, color, and scent with his grandchildren. With

his newfound faith in God, Lee felt the need to share his testimony often with family,

neighbors, and strangers. He attended church regularly the lasts years of his life.

Lee is survived by his brother, John Rovik; his children, Stephanie Behan {David Behan) and

Stephen Lee Rovik; his grandchildren, Payton Behan, Brock Behan (Natzha Behan), Anna

Behan, Taylor Baker, and Addison Kaullen; and his great-grandchi ldren, Francesca Behan

and Axel Behan.

One of Lee’s wishes was not to have a service. There will a brick placed in his honor at the

Missouri Military Academy.

Lee Roy will be remembered for his booming voice, generous heart, and love for people

and animals. We will miss his stories, his certainty, and his humor. We love you Grandpa

Lee.