William LeRoy "Lee" Burwinkel

Lee was born on November 16, 1942, in Fort Madison, Iowa, to Hattie Newby and Virgil Burwinkel. Lee attended Drake University and proudly served his country in the National Guard during the Vietnam War.

Lee embraced life with a sense of adventure and a deep appreciation for family, friends, and new experiences. He spent more than 30 years in Naples, Florida, where he enjoyed nature, fishing, and the friendships he built over the years. A passionate traveler, he explored many parts of the world, with Australia and New Zealand among his favorite destinations.

A lifelong sports fan, Lee was especially devoted to the Iowa Hawkeyes and proudly attended a Rose Bowl to cheer on his beloved team. He also enjoyed playing pool and spending time outdoors.

In recent years, Lee returned to Bettendorf, Iowa, where he treasured being close to his family. He will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and the genuine connections he made throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the memories of all who knew and loved him.

Lee was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Burwinkel; parents, Hattie Newby and Virgil Burwinkel; step father, Ralph Newby; and sister, Joyce Fenton and her son Dean.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Burwinkel; his son, Steven Burwinkel and his wife, Denise; grandson Steven Burwinkel and his wife, Kristyn; great-granddaughter Penelope Burwinkel; and grandson Colin Burwinkel.

He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Sarah Harvey and her husband, Scott; stepson Michael Halligan and his wife, Lori; stepson Brian Halligan and his wife, Margaret; stepson Adam Bill; stepson Alex Bill; sister Barbara Robison and her husband, Stan; brother Keith Burwinkel; and niece Jenny Carthy and her husband Tom, along with their children and families.

Visitation will be held at Runge Mortuary & Crematory in Davenport, Iowa, on Friday June 26, 2026 at 1:00 PM. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or First Presbyterian Church of Davenport, Iowa, in Lee’s memory.