Lee Wachtstetter

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to Lee, our Mama Lee, though a life as full as hers feels like it should stretch on forever. Born on January 1st, 1929, Lee embraced every single one of her 97 years with a spirit of adventure and a heart overflowing with love. She was a registered nurse for many years, a true caregiver at her core, and that compassion shone through in everything she did. But most people knew Lee for something truly extraordinary: her life at sea. Lee and her beloved Mason discovered cruising in 1962, and it quickly became *their* thing. Eighty-nine cruises later, Mason’s wish – whispered to her the day before he passed in 1997 – carried her onward. He told her to keep traveling, and she absolutely did. She didn’t just *go* on cruises, she *lived* on them, becoming a fixture on countless ships and a friend to crew members and passengers alike. She wrote about it all, too, sharing her incredible stories in her books and inspiring so many others to chase their own dreams, no matter how big or unconventional. I remember her telling me once, with that mischievous twinkle in her eye, that the ocean was the only place she truly felt free. But beyond the sea stories and the published books, Lee was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. Family meant everything to her. She always had time for a phone call, a handwritten note, or just a listening ear. She celebrated every milestone, big or small, with genuine enthusiasm. She wasn’t one for stuffy formality; she preferred laughter, good food, and heartfelt conversations. She had a knack for making everyone feel seen and loved, and her warmth was truly contagious. Lee leaves behind a legacy of courage, kindness, and a reminder to embrace life’s adventures. She showed us all that it’s never too late to follow your passions and that a little bit of wanderlust can go a long way. We’ll miss her terribly, but we find comfort knowing she’s finally reunited with Mason, likely already planning their next cruise amongst the stars.