LeRoy J. “Lee” Sauer, 91, of Watertown, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on the evening of Saturday, August 2, 2025, surrounded by family at his home.

Lee was born on July 30, 1934, in Milwaukee County, the son of the late Christine Sauer and the late Roy Fiscum. He attended school in both Milwaukee and Kewaskum before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. As a skilled radio operator aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, part of the Admiral’s Fleet, Lee carried out his duties with pride and dedication.

A man of many talents and interests, and a lifelong seeker of knowledge, Lee returned to Milwaukee after his service to earn a degree in biology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1962. This accomplishment laid the foundation for a lifetime of professional and personal endeavors.

Lee had a zest for life and an adventurous spirit. He flew his own Stinson airplane, worked as an assistant manager at the Horicon Marsh, and later built his own appraisal company, highlighted by the rare opportunity to appraise historic circus wagons for Circus World Museum. An avid outdoorsman, Lee cherished his annual hunting trips and time in nature.

On September 22, 1979, Lee married the love of his life, Joyce Houston, in Janesville, Wisconsin. They spent many wonderful years together in Fort Atkinson before moving to California, where Lee continued to pursue his passions. He led equestrian trail rides—including the River to River Ride in Riverside, California—riding his beloved wild mustang and best friend, El Monte. Lee served as president of one of the two equestrian groups he was active in and dedicated himself to many civic and nonprofit organizations.

In 2005, Lee and Joyce returned to Wisconsin, settling in Watertown. Lee continued to give back to the community, including six years volunteering aboard the Denis Sullivan, where he taught biology programs to high school students from the Milwaukee area. He deeply valued being close to others who shared his proud German and Norwegian heritage and even joined a local German cultural group.

Lee will be remembered for his love of animals and family, his go-getter attitude, and the many stories he shared over the years. He lived fully, generously, and with great curiosity about the world around him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Joyce Sauer of Watertown; his children Joseph (Joanne) Sauer and Diana Zimmerman; his grandchildren Joellen Sauer, Joy (Benn) Strudrud, and Jodie (Johnny) Nichols; and great-grandchildren Ava, Ella, Novalee, and Clark. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Ken Houston; nephew, Gregory (Carrie) Houston; great-niece, Gianna (Dylan) Rydz; stepsister, Kathleen (Ron) Sonntag; brother-in-law, Bill Klippel (husband of the late Sandra Klippel); and many other beloved family members and friends.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, his stepsister Sandra Klippel, and his sister-in-law Carol Houston.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on September 6, 2025, at the Sauer family home.