Political Science at UWindsor

In Memoriam: Dr. Martha Lee

Dr. Martha Lee

Dr. Martha Lee (1962 - 2015)

The Department of Political Science is saddened to announce the passing of friend and colleague Dr. Martha Lee, who passed away in the presence of those who loved her on August 1, 2015, at the age of 53. Loving wife of John Sutcliffe. Cherished mum of Iain and Ruairidh (Rory) Sutcliffe. Beloved daughter of Frank (Jean) Lee, Martha is predeceased by her mother Margaret Lee. Dear sister of Carol (Terry) O’Leary and David (Solange) Lee. Beloved daughter-in-law of Connie and the late Derek Sutcliffe. Dear sister-in-law of Andrew (Jillian) Sutcliffe and Dorothy Patterson. Dear aunt of Michelle, Keiran, Mattigan, Nathan, Christopher, Ruth and Cara. Martha will be missed by her many friends and colleagues. Martha received her PhD in Political Science from Syracuse University, NY and began her distinguished career at the University of Windsor in 1992. Her four books and many other publications earned her national recognition for her research and resulted in her being awarded a research chair and becoming a full professor. She was also always committed to her teaching and her students, many of whom she helped to success in their own careers. In the latter part of her career, she was appointed to a number of senior university administrative positions, most recently serving as Assistant Provost with responsibility for Inter-Faculty Programs.

Her love of music has been transferred to her sons and their successes in piano and violin. Her commitment to academics also lives on in her sons' scholarly achievements.

Campus flags at the University of Windsor will be lowered on August 7 in memory of Martha, who Associate Vice-President, Academic, Dr. Bruce Tucker said "was living proof that universities change lives" because of her dedication to students, colleagues, and community at Windsor. 

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations to All Saints' Anglican Church Outreach Program or the Martha Lee Scholarship for Political Science at the University of Windsor. Donations can be made by cheque, payable to the Department of Political Science; email Sandra Van Zetten (vanzet@uwindsor.ca) or call 519-253-3000 ext 2347, for further information. You may also make a donation via the university's online donation system and designating your donation to the scholarship.

Martha's obituary appeared in the Windsor Star on August 4, 2015. She will be missed, but never forgotten.