Jack Earl Leach
April 14, 1934 - December 04, 2018
Lake Forest CA
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Jack Earl Leach
April 14, 1934 - December 04, 2018
Lake Forest CA
Obituary
On the evening of December 4, 2018, Jack Earl Leach, loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away at the age of 84 in Lake Forest, California.
Jack was born on April 14, 1934, in Kansas City, Missouri, to John and Margorie (White) Leach. After moving to California and finishing high school, he joined the Air Force and was stationed in the U.S. He proudly served for two years, becoming a 2nd Lieutenant with hours logged flying B-25s. He was honorably discharged in October 1954. He and his first wife, Gloria (Crandall) Leach, had two daughters, Tracey Ann and Christy Rae, and a son, John Curtis. He married Susan (Miller) Leach in 1986.
Jack had an entrepreneurial spirit and never showed fear at a new prospect. He was ambitious and hardworking, with an “I can make it happen” attitude. Jack was a talented salesman, taking his craft into various fields throughout his life. He would excel, rising to meet each new challenge, and repeatedly won awards and earned recognition from his employers for his quick adaptation to each new field.
Jack, though successful, always wanted more. He would often take his efforts to the next level by starting his own company. Early on, Jack started with an insurance agency, and then moved on to owning and operating his own driving school based in the South Bay, where he employed several instructors and used company-owned vehicles.
Jack’s most satisfying endeavor, though, was in real estate. He ultimately became a licensed real estate broker and general contractor, opening his own firm and employing upwards of 30 agents who worked out of two South Bay locations. Jack utilized his contractor’s license, along with the success of his real estate sales, to develop several South Bay residential and commercial properties that were brought to market.
Throughout his early years, Jack devoted much of his recreational time to coaching Little League and American Legion Baseball in the spring and Pop Warner Football in the summer and fall. Later, he enjoyed traveling with his wife Susan, and he loved to fly so much that he attained his pilot’s license as a civilian. Many family gatherings were held at Jack and Sue’s home over the years and it was there that the younger generations got to know their grandfather and great grandfather.
Jack is survived by his wife of 32 years, Susan; his son, John Leach and his wife, Kerry; his daughters, Tracey Riel and her husband, Kenneth, and Christy Rodriguez; his first wife, Gloria Leach; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margorie Leach, and his sisters, Gail Fleming and Margorie Leach.
Services are to be held on Saturday January 19, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at Ascension Cemetery located at 24754 Trabuco Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630, phone: (949) 837-1331, south side of the “Guardian Angel Mausoleum.”
Services will be followed by a brief luncheon at the home of Susan Leach,
22535 Aspan Street, Lake Forest, CA 92630.
For more information contact John at (310) 713-5616
Graveside Service
- Date & Time: January 19, 2019 (11:00 AM)
- Venue: Ascension Cemetery
- Location: 24754 Trabuco Road Lake Forest, CA 92630 - (Get Directions)
- Phone Number: (949) 837-1331
11 responses to Jack Earl Leach
Ken Riel says:
January 4, 2019
Will miss you a lot ! Am glad to have got to know you 🙂
Ker says:
January 5, 2019
Dad, I adore you for so many reasons . Your kids and family, mostly for my Wonderful husband , your son, John.
The ever present twinkle in your eyes , the ready smile on your face, and infectious laughter.
You were always so accepting, and wise . Ready with a kiss and hug.
Thank you !
See you when we get there.
Miss you so much til then.
Ham says:
January 8, 2019
Jack was a man who always seemed to have a handle on things. He knew how to make everyone feel relaxed and always had a way of enjoying life. I met him through Pam and whenever we got together with Jack and Sue, there was never a dull moment. He loved playing games with our three sons and they really enjoyed being with their “Uncle Jack”. I especially remember the fun times visiting in Manhattan Beach and the breakfasts, lunches, and dinners we all shared together. He was very generous and helped family and friends whenever there was a need. He was a great brother-in-law, and a very good friend who will truly be missed.
Pam Durow says:
January 8, 2019
Jack was such a big and wonderful part of our family’s life. He was the quintessential Uncle to Josh, Aaron and Levi, sharing his knowledge and experience. Can’t count the times over the years I incredulously asked the boys, “where’d you learn THAT!?” Inevitably the answer was, “Uncle Jack”.
One of the best times in our lives was when Jack and Sue lived right across the street from us. Our impromptu meals and Trivial Pursuit nights were filled with sidesplitting fun! I’m grateful to have had such a really funny, thoughtful and “colorful” brother-in-law who made my sister so very happy.
May perpetual light shine upon him and through the mercy of God may he rest in peace.
Paula and Gary Hartgrove says:
January 8, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Susan.