Leo "Lee" J. VanVlerah, 72, of Defiance, passed away at CHP Defiance Area In-Patient Hospice Center on Thursday, May 3, 2018 in Defiance. He was born on May 13, 1945 to Leo and Dorotha (Kennedy) VanVlerah in Defiance.  Lee was a 1963 graduate of Ayersville High School. On February 16, 1978 he married Sharon Hayden who resides in Defiance.  Lee worked as a maintenance mechanic for Johns Manville until retiring in 2012. Lee was a member of Defiance Moose Lodge #2049, and was a life member of Defiance AMVETS  #1991.  He enjoyed hunting as well as camping in Quincy, Michigan for the past 22 years.  He especially loved spending time with his family. Lee is survived by his loving wife, Sharon, sons, Stephan (Tamara) VanVlerah of Payne, and Scott (Stephanie) VanVlerah of Defiance, daughters, Melanie Sucher of Perrysburg, Michelle (Bill) Brackenbury of Ohio, and Patricia (Kevin) Gillett of Defiance, 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and an estranged daughter, Tammy Ponzar. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a grandson, Alex P. Bevins. Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 8, 2018 from 2:00 pm  to 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, where funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at 11:00 am, with Pastor Brad Colley officiating.  Burial will follow the service at Riverside Cemetery, with Military Graveside Rites accorded by VFW Post# 3360.

Memorials may be made to CHP Defiance Area Hospice Center, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.