Leo "Spitz" Heier, age 96, a resident of Manitowoc, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at Holy Family Memorial Medical Center.

Spitz was born at home in Kellnersville to the late Andrew and Frances (Cherney) Heier.  After attending Lincoln High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy.  Spitz served his country overseas in the South Pacific during World War II on a destroyer, USS Stack.  On May 21, 1947, he married Dorothy Hardina at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manitowoc.  She preceded him in death on April 29, 1988.  Spitz had worked at Manitowoc Engineering for many years until his retirement.  He was an avid drummer who played for The Romy Gosz Band. And for over 50 years, Spitz played for his brother's band, The Gene Heier Orchestra, where they performed throughout the United States and Europe.  Playing the drums was Spitz's greatest joy, and sat in as recently within this past year for The Mark Jirikovic Polka Band and for his son's band, The Kolache Bros. Band.  He was a sociable entertainer that always had good jokes to share – much of which took place at his favorite restaurants, The Dugout, Green Street and Four Seasons.

Survivors include Spitz's three children, Shelly (Charlie) Morrison, Melbourne, FL; Michael Heier and his fiancée, Cathy Keil, Francis Creek; and Pamela Heier, Port Orange, FL; eight grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; also nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  Spitz was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Frances Heier; wife, Dorothy; son, Terry Heier; granddaughter, Holly Heier; and four siblings, Melvin Heier, Edward Heier, Agnes Heier (Edward's twin), and Gene Heier.

Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on June 2, 2022 at Evergreen Cemetery with Deacon Alan Boeldt officiating.  All are welcome to attend and are invited to meet by the sexton's house at 1:20 p.m. near the North 18 ^th Street entrance at Evergreen Cemetery.  Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel.  Military rites will be accorded by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 731.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in Leo's name which will be used to benefit organizations that were important to him.

Spitz's family would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation to Marianne Quinn and all of the Park View Haven Apartments residents for all of the care and friendship they provided.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11 ^th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with arrangements.