BANNING, Calif. - Lee Steven Bertrand, 62, died February 1, 2012, at his home in Banning, California. Lee was born in Middlebury, Vermont, a son of Henry and Theresa Bourgeols Bertrand, on February 6, 1949. He served his country as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam era as a Lt. and later became a Captain as a reserve officer. He obtained a bachelor's and master's degree at Western Michigan University and later a second master's degree at University of Redlands. Lee earned his living in banking and finance and at the same time he taught business at the University of Redlands, as well as other universities. He served as dean of the Leadership Academy for the Institute of Managerial Accountants. A long-standing member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Lee spent his life teaching and educating others in all things temporal and spiritual. Considered a great man by many, Lee left us with an abundance of love and caring shared by his family. Always the adventurer, he enjoyed the outdoors through hiking, backpacking and Scouting.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Barbara Jeanne Bertrand, and their children, Eric James (Soon Yi) Bertrand, Jason David (Tonja) Brown, Stephanee Lee (Ronnie) Pecor, Joshua Lee (Jennifer) Bertrand, Jacob Andrew (Jenny) Bertrand, Arianna Nicole Bertrand, and 20 grandchildren. In Vermont, he is also survived by a brother, Michael J. Bertrand, Whiting, and four sisters, Eileen M. Preseau, Orwell, Jean M. Bertrand, Rutland, Gayle A. Rowe, Huntington, Leslie J. Snyder, Whiting; as well as an innumerable extended family, friends and colleagues. Lee was predeceased by his four-legged hiking companions, Brooke and Huckleberry.

Private graveside services with military honors will be held in St. Mary's Cemetery, Brandon, Vt.

The Miller & Ketcham Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Published in Rutland Herald from February 4 to February 10, 2012