Lee, Robert F. Age 75 of Eagan, MN slipped away peacefully surrounded by all of his children on July 4, 2010. Until his short battle with cancer, Robert was as strong as a tiger. He is survived by his sister, Sally Hoo of Chicago, IL; four children, Lin-Sue (Ron) Schmaltz, Maria Lee (Aaron Burns), Robert (Jessica) Lee, and Alex Lee; three grandchildren, Gavin Lee, Kaine Lee and Hope Schmaltz; three nephews and many dear relatives and friends. Born July 16, 1935 in Canton, China, his journey took him to Melbourne, Australia; California; and Chicago, Illinois before he settled in Minnesota. His extraordinary cooking skills began to take shape at John's Place, a Chinese restaurant in Minneapolis. A long time entrepreneur, he owned and operated the first Robert Lee Restaurant in Eagan in 1973. His restaurant was so popular that he needed to expand so Robert Lee Restaurant moved to New Brighton and became part of the fabric of the neighborhood and city from 1976-1989. Robert was known for his phenomenal Chinese food, matched only by the generosity and hospitality that he perpetuated throughout his life and with every restaurant that followed. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Celebration of life service will be Friday, July 9, 2010 (Gathering at 10 am, Service at 11 am) at the Cremation Society of Minnesota - Edina Chapel, 7110 France Ave S, Edina, MN 55435, 952-924-4100. Luncheon for friends and family following at Jun Bo, 7717 Nicollet Ave, Richfield, MN.