LaGrelius

Elmer “Lee” LaGrelius, 84, passed away Friday, May 8, 2026, at Sturgill Hospice, Spring Hill, Fla.

He was born Dec. 25, 1941, in Chicago, Ill., to Elmer and Florence (Loussaert) LaGrelius.

Lee enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1960. He served over 28 years as a fixed-wing and helicopter pilot, achieving the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3. His military career included four tours in Vietnam. A proud patriot, Lee was a life member of several military organizations.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology at the University of Maryland. Lee dedicated 18 years helping fellow veterans as a social worker at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Butler.

Lee is survived by his wife, Anita; daughter, Shannon Bentz (Steve); sons, Ross Schafer (Cherry May), James LaGrelius (Tami) and Michael LaGrelius (Ann); and eight grandchildren.

His legacy will forever inspire those who knew him.

Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.