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Lee Edward Decker, a cherished family man, respected veteran, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2026, in Tomah, Wisconsin, at the Tomah VA Medical Center, at the age of 87. Born on July 24, 1938, in Atoka, Oklahoma to Lee Earnest Decker and Lola May (Trimble) Andrews, Lee's life was characterized by his dedication to his loved ones, his country, and his wide array of interests.
Lee's early years in Oklahoma and Arizona laid the foundation for a life of integrity and service. After he graduated from Santa Cruz Valley Union High School in Eloy, Arizona, he answered the call of duty and joined the United States Army, where he would go on to serve with distinction as a Facility Engineer. His military career was marked by his unwavering commitment and discipline, eventually retiring as a First Class Sergeant - E7 in May of 1981. Lee's tours in Korea, France, and Germany were among the defining experiences of his life, shaping the resilient and principled man he became. He lived in Phoenix, AZ and Shawnee, OK for many years until settling in Tomah in 2010; enjoying camping, fishing, horseback riding, playing his guitar, and enjoying trips around the world.
After his illustrious military service, Lee found joy in the camaraderie and shared values of the American Legion. His devotion to fellow service members was matched only by his love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength by his daughters, Carrie McDonald of Dallas, TX, Christie (Michael) Broadhurst of Tomah, WI, and Raquel Medlock of Okeechobee, FL; son, Eddie Decker; Lee's brothers, Richard "David" Andrews of Phoenix, AZ, Johnny Decker of Newalla, OK, Lee Decker Jr., of Little Axe, OK, and Jerry Decker of Midwest City, OK, will fondly remember their brother's humor. His nine grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild, who brought immense joy to his life, will carry forward his spirit of adventure and kindness.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Lee E. Decker and Lola May Andrews; his step-father, Floyd Andrews; and his siblings, Judy Peterson, Betty Wilson, Rickey Andrews, and Jackie Decker. They now welcome Lee into eternal rest, where memories of their shared past will be cherished forever.
A special thank you from Lee's family to the countless staff and caretakers as well as the Recreation Therapy team at the Tomah VA for the wonderful care they provided to him for so many years.
Visitation will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Burial with full military honors will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Waupaca (King), WI. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfunearlhome.com.
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