Maj. Gen. LeRoy “Lee” Robert Bartman, a distinguished retired officer of the United States Air Force, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2024, at the age of 94.

Born Jan. 11, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, he was the eldest of three children of the late Charles and Julia Bartman.

A graduate of Chadsey High School in 1948, Lee furthered his education at Wayne State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1953, a master’s degree in education in 1957 and a doctorate in education in 1974.

He also completed several military education programs through correspondence, including the Squadron Officer School, Air Command and General Staff School, Air War College and the Industrial War College.

Lee dedicated his life to serving his country in the U.S. Air Force. On Dec. 16, 1950, while attending Wayne State College, he married his beloved wife, Dolores Gladys LeSink. Dolores preceded him in death after 38 years of marriage.

Lee’s last active-duty assignment was at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Throughout his military career, Lee received numerous honors, including the United States Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and the State of Michigan National Guard Distinguished Service Medal.

After retiring in Texas, he transitioned to a career as a federal labor arbitrator, and married Sue Schultheis on Jan. 9, 2010.

Lee will be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His wife, Dolores, infant son, Kirby, and two sisters, Delores and Clara, preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Bartman; one son Casey (Laurene) Bartman; two stepdaughters, Dedra (Patrick) Beyer, and Tracy (Garry) Vainio; 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; and one brother, Jim (Gayle) Kinser.

A celebration of Lee’s life will take place at 2 p.m. Aug. 12, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, 315 Rosewood Ave. in Boerne. Donations may be made to St. John Lutheran Church or the American Heart Association in lieu of flowers.