Lee Frazier

Leona Elizabeth Frazier, more affectionately known as Lee, was born on May 7, 1943, the daughter of Frank and Cordellia (O’Tool) Steffes in Templeton, Iowa, where she was raised on a farm. She was baptized and later confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Templeton. Lee received her education at Kuemper High School, graduating with the Class of 1961, and went on to attend beauty school in Des Moines. Following her training, she began her career in cosmetology in Carroll and worked for a time at American Bell Telephone Company.

On September 23, 1967, Lee was united in marriage to Eddie Lee Frazier at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Templeton. The couple made their home in Vail and were blessed with three sons: Rick, Larry, and Mark. Lee devoted many years to her family as a homemaker, caring for her home and raising her children. After her sons were raised, she worked at K-Mart and later at New Hope Village in Carroll.

Never one to shy away from new challenges, Lee enrolled at Des Moines Area Community College, where she earned her Licensed Practical Nursing degree. She later continued her education at Buena Vista University, obtaining her teaching degree. Lee found great joy in substitute teaching, a role she balanced alongside her work caring for patients at New Hope for many years. Even after retiring, she continued substitute teaching, something she truly loved. In retirement, Lee remained in her home in Vail until moving to Homestead Assisted Living and later Gracewell.

Lee was an active member of St. Ann Catholic Church in Vail, where she taught CCD for many years and took part in numerous church activities. She enjoyed spending time outdoors gardening and took pride in canning her produce. Lee was a wonderful cook, and she also enjoyed sewing. Above all, she cherished time with her grandchildren, especially Adam and Brooklyn, and loved attending their many activities.

Lee passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Gracewell in Denison at the age of 82 years, 11 months and 27 days. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Eddie Frazier; son, Mark Frazier; two brothers: Elmer (Pat) Steffes and Blane (Colleen); siblings-in-law: Norbert Hoffman, Donna and Clarance Lappe Jr.

She is survived by two sons: Rick (Maryury) Frazier of Rosemount, Minnesota and Larry (Celesta) Frazier of Dow City; daughter-in-law, Jamie Frazier of Vail; grandchildren: Adam, Audrey, Rusty, Max and Brooklyn; siblings: Millie Hoffman of Carroll, James (Sharon) Daniel of Waukee, Diane (Bob) Fischer of Fairfield and Alden Steffes; many nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, with visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., all at St. Ann Catholic Church in Vail. Inurnment will follow in the St. Ann Cemetery near Vail. The family will direct memorials.