Lee Ann KinneeLee Ann Kinnee, 83 passed away on May 12, 2017 in Lansing, MI. She was born on March 5, 1934 in Haslett, MI to Beatrice (Brushaber) and Stanley Bower. After graduating as an R.N. and working as a school nurse, she went on to get a B.A. and an M.Ed. in Health Education which led to a career in the field of "special education" where she did pioneering work with blind and handicapped children and adults.Lee Ann was predeceased by her husband, Arlie Kinnee; son, John Lipke; and daughter, Lisbeth Lipke. She is survived by her sister, Jean Witherill of Lansing, MI; daughter, Kerstin Lipke of Hinesburg, VT; niece, Anne Witherill and wife, Sara Troutman of Lansing, MI; nephew, Mike Witherill and wife, Debbie of Gilbert, AZ; and granddaughter, Hannah Lipke of San Diego, CA. She is also survived by the Kinnee step-children and grandchildren as well as many beloved friends.With an insatiable curiosity and probing mind, Lee Ann loved to stay abreast of and discuss current events, politics, and religion. She lived in six states and two countries over the course of her life but felt most at home in Michigan.  She loved the natural world, especially birds, and was an avid bird watcher until her eye sight diminished in her 70's. This love led her to work at the Michigan Audubon Society for many years until she retired.She was a seeker of truth, justice and peace. She was a member of the ACLU and in her later years, a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lansing. Her contemplative soul found solace in silence, nature and, in her final months, with her special, weekly centering prayer group.Lee Ann's gentle, deep, and compassionate heart was always ready to listen, offer wise advice, or help make a difficult situation better. Her presence among us will be greatly missed.The family gratefully thanks the many friends, near and far, who loved Lee Ann and held her in prayer and in their hearts during her final weeks.  We also thank the helping hands and hearts that served her at the Hospice House, especially the hospice volunteers who provided respite and support when we needed it most.A private memorial service for the family will be held on the shores of Lake Michigan.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Michigan Audubon Society or the UU Church of Greater Lansing.