Missing Winter Park engineer recovered in Haiti

ORLANDO, FLA. — Lee Strickland, missing for five weeks since the January 12 earthquake in Haiti, has been recovered from the Hotel Montana. Strickland, a transportation engineer with PBS&J, was in Haiti representing the firm at a 2-day workshop. According to his family, Strickland will be flown to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware and then home to his family in Winter Park.

As PBS&J Orlando transportation planning group manager, Strickland possessed a diverse skill set that encompassed all phases of transportation planning and design, “a true accomplishment for his profession” according to longtime co-worker and friend, Sue Gratch.

Strickland was active at PBS&J in a variety of other roles including leading the United Way annual fund drive several years in a row. He even met his wife, Jean, when they both worked at PBS&J.

Strickland was a fitness fanatic — he had completed a half-marathon at Disney just before his trip to Haiti. More than just participating, he also encouraged everyone around him to get involved, creating a training team and helping others achieve their fitness goals.

A 1988 graduate of the University of Florida, Strickland had a passion for all things Gator — regularly attending home football games and traveling to away games. Strickland’s dedication extended to his church, which included volunteering as a Sunday school teacher.

Strickland is survived by his wife, Jean, and 11-year-old daughter, Kailey. The family’s church has created a special account through SunTrust Bank to assist Strickland’s family. Contributions can be made payable to the Lee Strickland Fund at any SunTrust Bank location.

For more information about PBS&J, please visit www.pbsj.com.