Leon David Birkholz passed away with his family by his side on December 6, 2013 at Appleton Medical Center. He was born on February 23, 1947 in Appleton to Vernon and Doris (Bartlein) Birkholz, the oldest of thirteen children. Lee married Paula M. Thiel on May 15, 1970 in Sherwood, Wisconsin. They spent 43 years…
Continue ReadingI'm sorry I had to miss the visitation and service for Lee. I'd like to send a note to you, Paula, and also make a contribution to any memorial fund. But, I can't find you in the phone book. Can someone please send me Paula's address, phone, etc.??
Paula and Family,
We were so sorry to hear the news about Lee. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. He will be missed.
So very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
I had the opportunity to get to know Lee both on and off the basketball court at the "Y" where I found him to be a quality person and a caring man. May his family rest assured he has been warmly welcomed into the arms of our Lord.
I was absolutely shocked to see Lee's obit. in the newspaper. Lee and Paula & family were my neighbors for a number of years on Matthias St. in Appleton. Lee was always the picture of health! Totally committed to his family. Hard working, but also knew how to relax and enjoy life. Birkholz family, I am so very sorry for your loss. May The Lord be with you all in this time of great sadness.

It is always hard to lose someone we love! Although I only met Lee a couple of times, I know him to be kind and thoughtful. To his family: Trust in the Lord to take good care of Lee now. So long as Lee is in your thoughts and prayers, he is truly with you.
A long time ago, after our HS graduation in 1965, I moved on and away from Appleton. But my memory has not faded as I remember Leon to be one of the nicest guys around. Quiet, strong and thoughtful. Just a neat guy whom, I'm sure, will be missed by many. My condolences to family and friends. Scott Caldie
I was very surprised and sad to see the obit for Lee. As many of you know, I grew up with and near Lee and the rest of the family. Leon, as I remember him, was one of the nicest, warmest, kindest people I have ever known. I knew that Lee had a bout with cancer but I just assumed he was doing ok. It is very sad to hear this news. My best wishes to the whole family. I know Lee will be missed by all.
Gary and Barb Hietpas
My big brother Lee, You have no idea how much you are missed. Now all I have is the wonderful memories, which are many. I will never forget all the times you picked me up when I needed it most. Always telling me that we needed to lean on each other, but not your car. :) You've completed the work that God wanted you to do. You crossed the finish line. I look forward to the day that I will see you again. Love you, miss you, Laurie
Lee, many years ago, on an early December night, I discovered that you were St. Nick, as I caught a glimpse of you racing down Murray Avenue in the dark night. I did not give away that I knew, because even at that young age, I knew somehow it might spoil your fun. You were the best, and my countless memories will help get me through losing you, such a big loss, it's going to be tough. But you were the toughest, so I will try to take a cue from you. I cannot enter the gym with thinking of you and always will. Say 'hey' to Dawn and I know that I will see you both again. Love, Joann