Obituary of Joon Jae Lee

January 31, 1944 – Chun-Ju, Korea

April 6, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

We are deeply saddened to announce that Joon Jae Lee passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the age of 80 years.

Joon Jae was born in Chun-Ju City, South Korea, on January 31, 1944. At the age of thirteen years old, he began studying martial arts. After serving in the Korean military, Joon Jae was later accepted into the Korean Police Agency, where he became an instructor. He later moved on to introducing the art of Tae Kwon-Do in Singapore, followed by a world tour of teaching and demonstrating the martial art. He was one of the first Korean Masters to introduce Tae Kwon-Do in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and throughout North America.

In February 1970, Joon Jae immigrated to Canada and settled in Calgary, AB, pioneering Tae Kwon-Do throughout Western Canada.

Besides his lifelong passion for martial arts, he enjoyed golfing, the outdoors, reading, and tending to his garden and the yard. 

He will forever be remembered for his gift of long conversations, singing throughout the house, and showing anyone who wanted to learn, the correct way to swing a golf club.

Joon is survived by his three children, Jordan (Elizabeth), Jaemi (Alex), and Jaeson; grandchildren, Sierra, Kevin, Justin, Koen, and Kenzie. Joon is also survived by three sisters and two brothers, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre St N, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery (3219 - 4^th Street NW, Calgary, AB). Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Joon’s family here.

In living memory of Joon Jae Lee, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes.