Lee was born on December 22, 1931, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the youngest son of Vera and Charles Witman. Lee grew up on a farm outside the city and graduated from Lower Paxton High School, Class of 1949. His friendship with fellow graduates continued throughout his life, which began his link to his community and service to others.

Lee joined the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty from 1950 to 1954. He continued to serve as a reservist from 1954 to 1980 and retired as a first sergeant. He was a lifetime member of the Marine Corps League and the Robert H. Hoke American Legion Post 272 of Linglestown. He loved the Marine motto, Semper fidelis, always faithful

After returning home from active duty, he was employed by Harrisburg Dairy. He did everything from picking up milk at farms to making ice cream, which we believe is where he developed his love of vanilla ice cream. While working at the dairy, he attended night school to learn computer programming. After he graduated, he was employed as a systems engineer for Electronic Data Systems until his retirement.

Lee, always looking for a way to serve his community, joined the Colonial Park Fire Company on April 1, 1957, when the fire company was only 13 years old. Of all the hats Lee wore in his life, the helmet of a firefighter was the one he valued and loved the most. Lee held the ranks of 1st and 2nd assistant chief before serving as chief of the department from 1963 until 1984. Most of the community of firefighters knew Lee simply as “Chief.” After retiring, Lee was awarded the title of chief emeritus for his service. Lee was past president of Dauphin County Volunteer Firemen’s Association and Dauphin County Fire Chiefs Association. He continued serving the fire company and the residents of Lower Paxton Township as a trustee. A fixture in the firehouse, Lee came in every morning after working out to share coffee with his fellow firefighters and handle his duties. Chief Witman was also a pinnacle of the fire prevention and public education programs offered throughout the township, educating children and adults alike to the dangers of fire.

Lee’s most beloved role was being a husband to Nancy, father to Denise and Cynthia, and grandfather to Cameron, Gabrielle, Colin, and Pierce. Each of them held a special place in Lee’s heart. Lee loved to sing, and both daughters were privileged to have him sing at their weddings.

Lee was a big fan of Penn State and enjoyed attending Penn State football games, as well as watching both Eagles and Phillies games.

Lee’s life touched so many people, and he will be deeply missed.