Lee Edward Erdmann, age 88, passed away at his home in Columbus, Wisconsin on Friday, August 2, 2024 surrounded by his closest family. He was born on June 20, 1936 in Milwaukee to August and Florence (Feige) Erdmann. Lee was married to Rosalie Brzezinski on September 24, 1960 in Milwaukee and together raised four children.

Lee was a loving and caring husband, father, and grandfather. However, he was fearless in life and as tough as they come. He put his family first and was unapologetic if anyone got in the way. There was absolutely zero tolerance for fake anything while living by the highest of ethical standards and common sense. He lived to laugh and enjoy time with his family.

Lee went to high school in Slinger, Wisconsin and was a star athlete in football, baseball, and basketball. He served in the United States Navy from 1955-1959. He excelled in his work involving electronics, which led to instructing at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Lee returned to Milwaukee and met his wife Rosalie. He joined the Milwaukee Police Department in 1959. While working and raising a family, he completed his bachelor degree in Criminal Justice at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Lee moved his family to Columbus, Wisconsin in 1976 when he accepted the Chief of Police position for the Columbus Police Department (retired in 1989). He remained in Columbus and in the same home for the rest of his life. Lee lived to see and spend time with his family and especially enjoying time with his grandchildren. He also made attending all events involving his grandchildren a priority. Lee was beyond an ultimate sports fan never missing a Packer game. Outside of his family, one of the moments he was most excited about was watching his Packers in person, win Super Bowl 31. He also loved watching or listening to the Brewers, and cheering on the Bucks. Lee loved to travel and see new things. He visited 42 countries while in the Navy. With his family, Erdmann family trips spanned several Florida trips (including visiting Disney World during its opening year plus return visits), numerous trips to various up north Wisconsin lake cottages, and other landmarks spanning coast to coast. Lee loved great food with his wife's cooking topping the list. He also never hesitated to treat his family out to eat with Friday fish fry's, Mama Mia's Italian, and Hup's pizza at the top of the list of favorites. Equally as important was his wife's numerous freshly homemade desserts.  Rose and Lee thoroughly enjoyed Casino visits throughout Wisconsin, Laughlin / Las Vegas Nevada, and Tunica Mississippi. Rose and Lee would normally outlast their children during late night visits.

Lee is survived by his children Michael (Laurie) Erdmann of Lomira, Deborah Erdmann of Columbus, Thomas (Sally) Erdmann of Columbus, Daniel (Amy) Erdmann of Plain City, OH; nine grandchildren Sarah, Nicole, Brett, Alyssa, Trent, Carson, Madelyn, Calvin, Zachary; his brother August Erdmann Jr. of Hartford; other relatives and friends. Lee was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Rosalie; a sister Barbara Marks; a brother-in-law Vernon Marks; a sister-in-law Nancy Erdmann.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, August 8, 2024 with a funeral service 12:00 P.M. at Jensen Funeral & Cremation with full military honors. Pastor Bob Moburg will officiate.

A special thank you to Dr. Rolf Poser, Dr. Sam Poser, The Poser Clinic Staff, Columbus Police Department, Columbus Fire Department, Prairie Ridge Health Hospital, Columbus Community Hospital, Marshfield Medical Center-Beaver Dam Hospital, Hillside Manor Nursing Facility, SSM Home Health Care, and an extra special thanks to all extended family and friends for your love and support

Memorials may be directed to any of the above mentioned agencies and businesses.

We encourage you to share your online condolences with Lee's family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com