Leland “Lee” Ward Alberts

Leland Ward Alberts (Lee) died peacefully on March 27, 2024, at the age of 73 after a hard- fought battle with cancer.  Lee, son of Melvin and Doris Alberts, grew up on the family farm near Amherst, South Dakota. While growing up he kept busy with farm work and chores.  He attended the school in Amherst and later transferred to Langford High School where he graduated in 1968.  He attended Northern State College and went on to work in the educational field.  He was well-respected for his patience, strong work ethic, and compassion for helping others.  He married Carolyn Nichols and they had two sons, Ryan and Richard.  Later he remarried Shelly Welker, and together they enjoyed spending time at Bay Lake, Minnesota and at their winter home in Gold Canyon, Arizona.   Lee enjoyed riding his motorcycle, playing tennis, entertaining, boating, and just being with friends and family.  His faith was an important part of his life, and he was involved with Bible study groups as well as being a faithful servant in his church.  Lee was fun to have around and maintained his positive outlook until the very end.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Doris Alberts. Lee is survived by his loving wife, Shelly, sister Marla (Richard) Muscio, Cody WY and his brother, Leonard (Sheri) Alberts, Britton, SD as well his children, who were his greatest joys, Ryan (Melissa) and Richard Alberts, and his honorary children, Brock (Carrie) Welker, Reid (Andi) Welker, Emily (Nic) Frost, and Annie (Jason) Voigt. Lee was greatly loved by his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, April 2 at Mountain Brook Village (Sunset Room) in Gold Canyon at 4:00 p.m. There will also be a celebration of life this summer in Minnesota where he will be laid to rest. Cards can be sent to Shelly Alberts at 5520 South Marble Drive, Gold Canyon, AZ 85128. Memorials will be distributed to charities that were important to Lee.