Lee Tracy, 47, Was on Force for 22 Years : Former Beverly Hills Police Chief Dies

Funeral services will be conducted today for former Beverly Hills Police Chief Lee Tracy, who died Tuesday at his home in North Hollywood after a long illness. He was 47.

Tracy joined the Beverly Hills force as a traffic patrol officer 22 years ago.

In 1972 he was appointed sergeant in the detective and patrol divisions, and in 1976 he was promoted to lieutenant in charge of traffic and detective divisions. Tracy was named chief in 1979, replacing Edward Kreins, who was named city manager.

“He contributed 22 years to the city with a great deal of honesty and caring,” Kreins said. “Lee cared about the organization and the city and was a tremendous friend.”

Kreins said Tracy expanded the K-9 police dog unit and the drunk-driving and crime prevention programs. “The integrity of the department was maintained because of his leadership,” Kreins said. “He set a standard for the department to follow.”

During six years as chief, Tracy received numerous honors, including recognition from the state Assembly and Senate, the Los Angeles County district attorney and the Board of Supervisors.

Tracy was honored by the city for his role in providing security during the Olympic Games. To prepare for the Olympics, Tracy initiated 10,000 hours of training for police officers.

Tracy, a member of the Police Officers Assn., retired from the Beverly Hills force in February because of failing health.

He is survived by his wife Margaret, sons Dan Tracy and Brad Tracy, daughters Denise Bush and Lori Payne and three grandchildren.

Services will be conducted at 9 a.m. at Forest Lawn in the Hollywood Hills.