Obituary of Jack Leach

Jack Leach joined the army during the World War II era. He was frontline infantry in the Korean War and was recently honored during the dedication ceremony of the Korean War Monument in Olympia. He continued to serve his country as active duty Civil Service and National Guard until he retired June 28, 1990. Jack was the recipient of many awards during his career including the Meritorious Service medal in 1991, achievement medals in 1991, 1983, and 1985, and commendation medals in 1978, 1979, and 1984. He was especially proud of his 120 days of frontline infantry during the Korean War. Jack wore his Korean War Veteran 1950 – 1953 U.S. Army hat with pride. On it was his WWII Commemorative pin, VFW Post 318 pin, and his infantry pin. Ironically it wasn’t until the war in Iraq that total strangers came up to him and shook his hand and thanked him for his service to his country. Jack’s parents, Leonard and Dorothy Leach, predeceased him. He leaves behind two daughters, Libby Nordlund (Dan), of Bothell, Dianne ‘Marie’ Short (Steve), of Lacey; son, Lenny Leach, of Auburn; grandson, Eric Nordlund, of Seattle and three granddaughters, Aarron Leach, of Australia, Noel Stemple (Steve), of Lacey, and Sarah Slabaugh (Eric) of Seattle. He was very proud to be a grandfather and carried the nickname “Grandpa Jack”. His great grandchildren include E.J. Slabaugh, of Seattle, Natasha Stemple, Austin Stemple, Faith Stemple, and Levian Stemple, all of Lacey. He also leaves behind a sister, Barbara Gardner (Leon) and their family, of Seattle. He also leaves behind an extended family and a large circle of friends who will never forget him. Jack will always be remembered for his passion in helping others, his incredible wisdom and sense of humor. His smile could light up a room. Due to dementia he spent the last three years living with his daughter and son-in-law, Dianne ‘Marie’ and Steve Short. His family was very involved in his life. He had many special caregivers. Heartfelt gratitude goes out to Julia Starlings, Bobbi Sherhag and Assured Hospice who helped him die with dignity at home. A special thanks also goes to Pastor George Albertson, who prayed with Dad at his bedside just before he went to Heaven. Rest in peace mighty soldier, rest in peace. In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted in his name to purchase a perpetual mural in the entry way of Monarch Childrens Justice and Advocacy Center for abused children, 420 Golf Club Rd. SE Suite 203, Lacey WA 98503. In Loving Memory Jack Edward Leach BORN October 17, 1929 Seattle, Washington PASSED AWAY February 26, 2005 Lacey, Washington GRAVESIDE SERVICE 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 14, 2005 Tahoma National Cemetery Kent, Washington CLOSING SONG “Take My Hand Precious Lord” by Vaude DeVille FULL MILITARY HONORS provided by VFW Post 315 All are invited to a reception and sharing time at 1:00 p.m. College Street Christian Church Lacey, Washington “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him” James 1:12 Jack Edward Leach born October 17, 1929 in Seattle, Washington, died peacefully at home February 26, 2005 Final resting place is at Tahoma National Cemetery. Lived and served with honor!