Lee Charles Hierholzer, of Murphy, Texas passed away March 27, 2018, following a long illness after a stroke.

He was born December 14, 1947, in Celina, Ohio, to Charles and Anna Hierholzer, both deceased.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Debbie LeClair Hierholzer, brother John (Jay) Hierholzer and wife Ginny, of Columbia, Maryland, sister Kristine Dues and husband, Bill, of Eaton, Ohio, nephews Gavin (Julie) of Troy, Ohio, Jonathon (Lindsey), Chicago, Illinois, niece Annina Parini (Greg) of Worthington, Ohio, grand nieces and nephews - Cooper and Adler Dues, Jonny and Mara Dues, Dominic, Luca and Vincent Parini.

Lee was a 1966 graduate of Immaculate Conception High School in Celina, Ohio. He graduated in 1970 with a BS in Journalism from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. After college he moved to Lake Tahoe, California and enjoyed many years there. He was a freelance reporter for the Truckee, CA newspaper and also enjoyed working at various ski resorts in the area.

He moved to Reno, Nevada in 1980 to attend the University of Nevada for a year, earning a BS in Secondary Education. He met his wife, Debbie in Reno and began teaching in the Washoe County School District.

In 1994 they moved to the Dallas area where Lee continued his teaching career at McMillan Middle School in Wylie TX. He retired in 2012. He is fondly remembered by his students.

Lee was known for his terrific and ornery sense of humor. He was a thoughtful friend, always remembering birthdays with a funny card or a phone call. He loved his roots in Mercer County and came back every summer for the Lake Festival and the IC Festival, where he reconnected with many old friends. He also loved music and was a DJ on weekends while in college at the Red Door in Celina.

As a youth, Lee enjoyed being on the Celina Swim Team. His favorite event was 3 meter diving. He was mostly fearless on the high board and would try anything. Lee loved muscle cars and was very proud of his restored 1971 El Camino. He will be missed by all who knew him.

A special Celebration of Life will be held in Celina, Ohio at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Lee's memory to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 15829. Arlington, VA 22215.