Lee Elmo Hagelberger
October 10, 1942 ~ September 10, 2025
Lee Elmo Hagelberger, 82, passed away on September 10, 2025, in Ocala, Florida. Born on October 10, 1942, in Springfield, Ohio, Lee lived a full and vibrant life marked by curiosity, craftsmanship, and connection.
A graduate of Springfield High School, Lee began his professional journey with an apprenticeship at Urbana Tool and Die that led him to a long-standing career at Morgal Machine Tool Co. in Springfield. His work reflected his natural talent as a handyman—someone who could fix just about anything—and his deep appreciation for precision and detail.
Lee’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. A lifelong member of the NRA he carried the values of service and camaraderie throughout his life. He was also very active within Explorer Post 6 where he won the National Individual Champion NRA Explorer Rifle Match in 1960. He was an avid traveler and rock hound whose fascination with geology blossomed into a love for gemology. As an amateur gemologist and jewelry maker, he found joy in transforming raw stones into beautiful pieces—a reflection of his ability to see potential and beauty in all things.
He also served on the Beautification Commitee at the German American Social Club of Cape Coral. He was very active in the club's annual Oktoberfest as well. At home, Lee enjoyed puzzles that challenged the mind and conversations that stirred the heart. He was known for his fondness for Facebook Messenger, where he stayed connected with friends and family near and far.
Lee had a generous spirit and a sentimental heart. He never met a stranger—his warmth made everyone feel like an old friend. He loved to cook and took great pleasure in sharing meals with others.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eileen Reed Hagelberger and Elmo Eugene Hagelberger; and his sister Susan Della Hagelberger Harper.
Lee is lovingly remembered by his sister Sara Sommer; niece Anne (Fred) Meyer and their daughter Emily; Heather Harper; nephews Tony (Nicole) Sommer; Glenn (Amy) Harper; Seth (Libby) Harper; along with many cousins and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
May Lee’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a reminder of a life well-lived—full of kindness, stories shared, puzzles solved, meals cooked with love, and treasures unearthed from both the earth and the heart.
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I did not know Lee but I've heard so many stories from his niece, Anne, who is my lifelong friend. May God bless his soul as well as Anne, her Mom and the family.
I did not know Lee but I've heard so many stories from his niece, Anne, who is my lifelong friend. May God bless his soul as well as Anne, her Mom and the family.
Best of luck to you Cousin, in you next Life adventures
Lee was my brother-in-law for many years until his sister, my first wife died. He was always kind to his niece and nephews, and he was always ready to help anyone who needed help. A very kind man, may his soul rest in peace.
Sending love to the family. While I have never personally met Lee, we became "friends" through Facebook and I truly enjoyed his wit and humor.
It was a pleasure to know you to visit and talk about what you were cooking. You enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen. You spoke fondly of your sister and lifelong friends as well as your travels. Rest easy you will be missed.
Uncle Lee (affectionately known as simply Unc) to us kids was always great to be around. Full of stories and interesting facts. He was always tinkering with this hobby or that from gemilogy, to model ships, and lots in between. I have a lot of fond memories or visiting Gradma , Grandpa, Aunt Glad and often Unc up at Indian Lake in the summers. May he rest in peace!
Lee was a delightful member
of our Saturday morning coffee group here at Otow recently, I will miss his presence, the stories, and the latest recipe. Godspeed, dear new friend.
Lee was a dear friend whom I met at Cripple River, Nome, Alaska. We shared many stories, jokes, and memories via messenger over the years. I will miss dearly.
So sad to hear of Lee’s passing. Lee was a good neighbor of mine at Indian Lake and he continued to stay in touch over the years since. Always sending me pictures of opals knowing it was my birth stone. My condolences to his family and friends I will truly miss his phone calls.♥️🙏🏼