Leland "Lee" Colin Heldstab died January 30, 2021 in Venice, FL at the age of 78. Lee was born on June 18, 1942, in Crookston, MN to Leon and Amelia Heldstab. He received his bachelor's degree in physical education from University of North Dakota and his master's degree from Northern Illinois University. Lee was united in marriage to Vicki Jean Ramey on December 21, 1968. Together they had two sons, Matthew and Jacob.

Lee was a physical education teacher at Emerson Elementary School in Wheaton, IL for 33 years, where he was loved by his students and well known for running the annual Emerson Olympics for many years.  Lee enjoyed traveling and drove across the country on several occasions including traveling to all forty-eight contiguous states. After retirement, Lee and Vicki continued traveling, spending most winters in warmer climates.  They also loved spending summers at their cabin on Cass Lake, MN with family and friends.

Lee is survived by his sons Matthew (Michelle) of Hudson, WI and Jacob (Emily) of Osprey, FL; grandchildren, Maeve, Merrick, Amber and Nick; brother, Jerry (Sue) Heldstab; Sister-in-law, Celeste (Jerry) Schrock; Nieces, Dawn, DeDe and Katie; nephews, Rob, Chris, Scott and Mike.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Vicki; parents and brother-in-law (Frank Ramey).

The family has organized a fundraiser in Lee's honor to support Emerson Elementary School, and has asked that in lieu of flowers a donation be made. If you would like to donate please click here: Lee Heldstab fundraiser for Emerson Elementary School

A visitation will be held Saturday, May 8, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. until time of Sharing of Remembrances beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187.  For those not able to attend in person, a livestream video may be viewed by clicking here: Leland Heldstab service . A private inurnment will take place at St. Michael Cemetery in Wheaton.