Lee Albert Gagnon

CHARLESTOWN, R.I. – Lee Albert Gagnon, 83, of Charlestown, R.I., passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Aug. 1, 2021, surrounded by his family. Born in Waterville, on Nov. 27, 1937, he was the son of the late Lionel and Germain (Fortin) Gagnon. He was predeceased by his wife, Susan Trautman Kauffman. He is survived by his four children: Deborah Tymm of Billerica, Mass., Michael Gagnon and his wife Teresa of Shelton, Conn., Stephen Gagnon of Portland, Ore., and Terry Driscoll and her husband James of Chelmsford, Mass. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Brian and Kevin Gagnon, Kelly and Megan Driscoll, and Carly and Sarah Tymm. He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Marissa Tymm.Lee earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business and Economics from the University of Maine and a Master’s Degree in Professional Accounting from the University of Hartford. He was a Certified Public Accountant.He was a proud veteran, having enlisted as a Private in the U.S. Army Reserves at age 17. After graduating college, he served two years on active-duty service at Fort McPherson in Georgia. During this time, he won his Paratrooper Wings and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for meritorious service. Following active duty, he served with a Civil Affairs and Military Government culminating ten years of active and reserve service.Lee raised his family in Connecticut where he had a long and successful career in the insurance and banking industries. He retired from Webster Financial Corporation as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Secretary. A determined man, he was frequently quoted with saying “You can make it happen or let it happen”. Lee was someone who made it happen.In addition to his jobs, Lee was involved in numerous organizations. He was a member of the Rotary International Club, the Financial Executives Institute, and the Society of Corporate Secretaries. He also served on the Executive Board of the YMCA, the Thunderbird Club of Connecticut, and the Devonwood Homeowners Association.Lee was an avid reader of history, with a particular interest in the U.S. military and presidential history. He also enjoyed architecture, using his many skills designing and remodeling his homes. He always had a project in the works, and as soon as he finished one, he began thinking of his next project. He was the ultimate planner and will be fondly remembered for the 5 Ps – “Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance.”Lee was a warm and generous man who was a true role model to his family. His adages and “Lee Believes” will be remembered and his love for his family will be in our hearts forever.Funeral and burial will be private.