Leroy “Lee” Buchholz

Leroy “Lee” Buchholz

Washington

Leroy “Lee” Buchholz, age 87, of Washington, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the United Presbyterian Home in Washington.

Celebration of life services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Washington with Pastor Erin Kaye officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service, starting at 10:00 a.m. Those attending the service are encouraged to wear blue, red, or anything Nebraska Cornhusker. Memorials have been established for the Immanuel Lutheran Church or for a local high school scholarship. Online condolences may be sent for Lee’s family through the web at www.jonesfh.com

Lee was born February 3, 1937, at his family’s home in Table Rock, Nebraska, the son of Otto and Anna (Geyer) Buchholz. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. Lee attended a one-room schoolhouse through eighth grade and later graduated from high school in Johnson, Nebraska. He attended Nebraska State Teachers College in Peru, Nebraska, for two years before transferring to Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education. He later earned his master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa and used it to provide continuing education credit classes for numerous teachers in southeast Iowa. On June 5, 1960, Lee was united in marriage to Lois Bremer in Metropolis, Illinois.

Lee began his teaching career at Orange Township in Waterloo, Iowa, and later taught at the Columbus Junction Community School District, where he was simply known as Mr. B, until his retirement in 1998. After retiring, Lee continued to demonstrate his enduring commitment to helping students learn and grow by teaching English as a Second Language at Kirkwood Community College and music at St. James Catholic School in Washington. He also worked as a substitute teacher in the Washington Community School District until October 2024.

An active member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Lee sang in the church choir and served on many committees. He was a member of the Optimist Club and Habitat for Humanity, and was involved with a Foreign Exchange Program for many years. Lee participated in many musical performances at the "old" Washington High School and Washington Community Center. He enjoyed gardening, reading, and was an avid Nebraska Cornhuskers fan. Lee was particularly well-known for his renditions of the National Anthem at many local athletic events.

Throughout his life, Lee received numerous accolades, including the 2007 Rotary Community Service Award, the 2009 Washington Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award, the 2023 Optimist of the Year for leadership in Foster Parent & Youth Appreciation Recognitions, and the 2023 AAUW Women of Washington Outstanding Educator Award.

Lee is survived by three children: Renee Buchholz of Washington, Iowa and significant other, Calvin Jones of Pleasant Plain, Iowa; Erik Buchholz and wife Christy of Washington, Iowa; Heidi Kaufman and husband Andy of Mission, Texas; five grandchildren: Kaitlin Buchholz, Jessic Chapman and husband Jay, Colton Kaufman, Kailey Kaufman, and Jenna Aldridge.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Cheaster and Richard; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and relatives; his wife Lois in 2021; and son Brad in 2023.