Lee Ivan Bohlander

Lee Ivan Bohlander age 87, of Auburn, Indiana passed away on Sunday, October 6,2024, at home, two weeks shy of his 88th birthday. He was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on October 21, 1936, to Andrew and Ruth (McMillan) Bohlander.

Lee grew up in Fort Wayne with his five siblings, all helping their parents run their bait and tackle shop on Clinton Street. He attended Central High School, where he played football and basketball. After high school, Lee served overseas in the U.S. Army during the Berlin Crisis, receiving his honorable discharge in 1962.

In 1963, Lee met the love of his life, Louise Zeller, in Fort Wayne. They had fantastic times together, clubbing, cruising and square dancing. They married on April 18th, 1964.

An excellent carpenter, Lee ran Bohlander Construction with his brother, Roy. He would later become General Contractor of Lee Bohlander Construction for decades until he retired at the age of 80.

He was a proud member of the Tappet Tickers car club in Fort Wayne and was an accomplished life-long bowler, playing in various leagues over the years and sometimes with family. He also enjoyed karate, golf, and watching westerns and sports. He was an excellent dancer, and an avid IU basketball fan.

Lee loved his family and was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed co-coaching his daughter’s softball team and attending all of his granddaughters’ sports events.

Lee is survived by his wife of 60 years, Louise (Zeller) Bohlander of Auburn.; one daughter, Amy (Gary) Clark of Auburn; one sister, Ila (Ron) Korte of Fort Wayne; two granddaughters, Mckenzie Clark and Mariah Clark of Fort Wayne; one great granddaughter, Alaya Posey; and his adored dog, Sami.

He was preceded in death by four brothers, Joe, Roy, Dan, and Jay Bohlander; his niece, Sue Bohlander; and his niece, Lorra Spencer.

Per Lee’s wishes, there will be no funeral services, but his family invites those who knew him to share their fond memories or photos of Lee.

For those who wish, honoring him with a donation to Humane Fort Wayne Animal Shelter https://humanefw.org would be greatly appreciated.