Earl Lee Church, 75

Earl Lee Church, age 75, of New Prague, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2024, at the Lutheran Home of Belle Plaine.  

Lee was born June 5, 1949, to Edward and LaVerne (Schanus) Church, in New Prague, MN.  

Lee graduated from New Prague High School in 1967, after which he enlisted in the United States Air Force as a mechanic who worked on B-52 bombers and C135 aircraft. He provided direct support during the Vietnam War. Attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant, Lee was honorably discharged in 1971. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion.

Lee married Donna Bruzek on August 6, 1982, at Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague. They lived in New Prague in Lee’s family home during their entire marriage.

Lee operated his own business, Lee’s Repair Service, in New Prague, for many decades. Lee was then employed as a caretaker at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery for ten years, retiring in 2011, at age 62.

Lee took pleasure in gardening, working around the house, and was an excellent cook. In earlier years, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping. Lee also enjoyed visiting with his many friends over a cold beer.

Lee is survived by his beloved wife, Donna, children Michelle (Kevin) Matters, Eddie (Missy) Church, Leah (Mike) Stender, grandchildren Shane and Logan Matters, Bennett and Charlotte Church, Brayden, Madison and Carter Stender, all of New Prague. 

Preceding Lee in death are his father, Edward Church, mother, LaVerne Ruter, stepfather, Sonny Ruter, father- and mother-in-law, Ray and Ludmilla Bruzek. 

A private burial will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Friday, August 16, 2024. A Celebration of Life for friends and family of Lee will take place on Sunday, September 8 at the American Legion Club Room in New Prague from 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.