Dr. Aung Pwint Lee

Born on August 13, 1950, in Katha, Myanmar, Aung was a brilliant student who graduated second in his class from medical school in Mandalay in 1975. Even as a child, he was known not just for his intelligence but also his mischievous streak (sneaking comic books into his textbooks so he could read them during class). That blend of brilliance and playfulness remained a defining trait throughout his life.

During his early medical career, fate (and a bit of behind-the-scenes scheming) introduced him to the love of his life, Hazel. Smitten at first sight, he famously closed his clinic repeatedly just to see her. His relentless charm, humor, and stream of love letters eventually won her heart, and they married in 1979.

That same year, Aung and Hazel immigrated to England. In 1984, he earned both the FRCA and FFARCS, two of the most respected certifications in anesthesiology, an especially meaningful milestone for a foreign-trained physician, with the latter exam passed by fewer than one in four candidates.

Later that year, they moved to the United States and settled in Erie, Pennsylvania, where Aung built a meaningful life and impactful career. He served for decades at Anesthesia Consultants of Erie, where he was respected for his sharp mind, fairness, and integrity. As Chairman, he led with humility and warmth, encouraging both excellence and balance. He was admired for his quiet strength, his ability to lighten the mood with a joke, and his joyful presence—often showing off dance moves during breaks in the recovery room. To many, he was not just a colleague, but a true friend.

One of the most defining chapters of Aung’s life came after surviving a liver transplant. Rather than allowing it to limit him, he embraced life with renewed energy and gratitude. He traveled widely, explored new cultures through food, and cherished time with loved ones. He was known for doing the cha cha as he glided down hospital hallways or danced in the kitchen, and he never missed a chance to be on the dance floor at every gala or wedding. He sang on road trips with Hazel and brought laughter wherever he went.

Even toward the end, as he faced cancer with courage and resilience, Aung fought hard. Through every setback, he continued to bring humor, light, and a quiet strength that uplifted those around him. His wit never faded—a testament to the joy he carried and shared until the very end.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Hazel Lee; his children, Nicole Lee and Terence Lee; his daughter-in-law, Melanie Gilman; and his adopted son, Scott Helsley. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and joy.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:45 p.m., followed by a service and cremation at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 5416 Parkcrest Drive, Austin, Texas. The service will be livestreamed (link below) for those who can not attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, our family requests donations to be made in his memory to the LUNGevity Foundation (link below) in hopes to contribute to a future where families are spared the heartbreak of this disease.