Before his name became associated with a growing local foundation, Michael Ray Lee, known to family and friends as Mike, was the kind of person whose drive and presence left a lasting impression.
A Greeley Central High School graduate, Mike was known for his sharp mind, steady work ethic, and competitive spirit. He discovered golf at just five years old and quickly developed the discipline and natural ability that carried him through a successful junior and collegiate career. Off the course, he was equally focused academically, later earning his engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, where he was also recognized as an All-American golfer.
Those closest to Mike remember more than his accomplishments. He was outgoing, focused, and deeply motivated to be the best at whatever he pursued, qualities that continue to shape the work now being done in his name.
Mike passed away in December 2020 at the young age of 28 following complications from COVID-19. In the months that followed, his parents, John and Amy Lee, along with his brother, Joe, faced the difficult question of how to honor a life that had been so full of promise. Their answer became the Michael Ray Lee Foundation, created to ensure Mike’s love of the game would continue creating opportunity for others.
Turning Passion Into Purpose
Established by the Lee family, the foundation carries forward Mike’s passion for golf while opening doors for young athletes across Northern Colorado. Its mission is clear: use the game of golf to create a positive impact through junior programs, scholarships, and direct support of school teams.
Since its founding, the foundation has:
- Awarded $50,000 in scholarships to local student athletes
- Invested $36,350 into area high school golf programs
- Provided $57,600 in SNAG (Starting New At Golf) kits to Greeley schools
- Made ongoing contributions to golf programs at the University of Northern Colorado, Colorado School of Mines, and the Colorado Golf Association
- Helped launch the first-ever Greeley middle school golf team in 2025
- $576,000 reinvested directly back into the community
- $350,000 in AARPA (Covid Relief Funds) contributed to the creation of the Mike Lee 9 at Boomerang Links, in partnership with the City of Greeley
SNAG—Starting New At Golf—is a beginner-friendly curriculum designed to introduce young players to the fundamentals of the game in a fun, approachable way. The oversized clubs and colorful equipment help remove the intimidation that can come with traditional instruction, allowing students to build confidence early. Students who first encounter the game throughSNAG in their physical education classes can then step onto the Mike Lee 9 and experience those same fundamentals in a real-course setting, creating a natural bridge from classroom to course.
For the foundation and the Lee family, these investments reflect the same qualities Mike embodied—discipline, opportunity, and a belief that hard work should open doors.
The Heart of the Mission: The Mike Lee Memorial Tournament
While the foundation’s work continues year-round, its signature event—the Mike Lee Memorial Golf Tournament—has become the engine behind its growing impact.
Each summer, golfers, sponsors, and community members gather not only to play, but to invest in the next generation. Proceeds directly support scholarships, youth programming, and school partnerships throughout the region.
What began to honor Mike’s memory has grown into something deeply meaningful for both the foundation and the broader Greeley golf community. The tournament now brings together longtime players, local businesses, and families who simply want to be part of something that gives back.
Participation continues to grow, expanding the foundation’s reach each year.
Looking ahead, the foundation is working toward its next goal: supporting the development of an indoor/outdoor golf training facility in Greeley. The space would provide year-round opportunities for young players to sharpen their skills and deepen their connection to the game Mike loved.
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
Today, the impact of the Michael Ray Lee Foundation can be seen across Greeley—from school gymnasiums using SNAG equipment to student athletes preparing for collegiate competition.
Foundation leaders and supporters say the mission remains both deeply personal and firmly focused on the future. Every scholarship awarded, every young golfer introduced to the sport, and every community partner who steps forward helps ensure Mike’s passion continues to create opportunity for others.
The Mike Lee 9 wouldn’t have been possible without a city that listened carefully and led with empathy. Leaders from the City of Greeley, along with the team at Boomerang Links, approached the Mike Lee 9 with intentional care—from former Mayor John Gates to the golf leadership and course staff. Their attention to detail, from the first-tee plaque to the course markers bearing Mike’s name, reflected a shared commitment to honoring his legacy while creating something meaningful for the community. “The attention to detail was unbelievable,” John Lee said. “They made this about Mike. We couldn’t have asked for a more thoughtful group of people.”
For those moved to be part of the effort, the foundation offers many ways to get involved, from donations and tournament participation to sponsorships and volunteer support. Each contribution helps expand access to the game and strengthen opportunities for young athletes across Northern Colorado.
Because for the Lee family, honoring Michael Ray Lee has never been only about remembrance.
It’s about creating opportunities that continue to open doors for the next generation.
To donate or get involved, visit MichaelRayLee.com.