In Loving Memory of
James "Jim" Reginald Leach
1945-2024
Obituary of James "Jim" Reginald Leach
On February 7th, with his devoted family at his side, Jim peacefully took his last breath, knowing he was loved.James Leach, son of Jack Reginald and Anne Fraser Leach (predeceased) was born and raised in St Catharines. Jim was Maggie’s (Redman) beloved husband and “Santa Baby” for 53 years. Also survived with love and admiration by his children Neil, Heather & Margo; grandchildren Katie, Nathan, Morgan & Matthew - who adored their Papa or “Pops”; brothers Barney, Chris & Cam - his dear kin of Clan Fraser and The Thom Squad.
Uncle Jim or Cousin Jim will be lovingly remembered. Friends in St Catharines, Niagara Falls and the Perth Curling Club (17 yrs) will reminisce about Jim. They will be smiling as they keep his memory alive. Jim’s most endearing legacy is that he was foremost a gentleman. An unpretentious man who was easy to love.
As a natural athlete, he was equally at home with a basketball (Collegiate/Brock), a Henley oar, or a Skip's broom (Perth Curling Club). As gifts for his athletic achievements, he received trophies and medals.
Before he died Jim shared with his family and friends his most treasured possession. It was big, and it was beautiful. It was his heart.
Receiving a “good pass” from Larry Miller, Jim scored his final basket to win the game. Then he left the court, and his spirit entered the universe. His Bridge partners, Lynne, Leona & Maggie, know that wherever he is, he is holding seven notrump in his hands.
As per Jim’s wishes cremation has taken place. Arrangements are entrusted with Essentials Cremation & Burial Services. No visitation or funeral. A party in May will be organised to celebrate his life, and further details will be provided here, and via family & friends.
The family thanks the Trillium Unit of Niagara Falls, who cared for Jim like they would a member of their own family. Dr Phillips and Susan, of the Walker Family Cancer Centre, were kind and invaluable to Jim from the beginning to the end of his journey with cancer.
In lieu of flowers, Jim has requested donations in his memory be made to: Trillium Unit (Niagara Falls, NHS), or Walker Family Cancer Centre.
Donations can be made via cheque, or via online donation (link in "donation" tab to the left) - Please ensure you choose either ‘Walker Family Cancer Centre’ or ‘Extended Care – Trillium Unit (Niagara Falls)’ from the drop-down options, so the funds are distributed as per Jim’s wishes.
Peaceful rest, Jim, and “Slainte Mhath”.
Service Information
A Celebration of Life
Date:Start Time:
End Time:
Venue: A party in May will be organised to celebrate his life - Details coming soon.
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Donations
The family of James "Jim" Reginald Leach would like you to consider placing a donation to one of the following charities:
Niagara Health Foundation - Please ensure you choose either ‘Walker Family Cancer Centre’ or ‘Extended Care – Trillium Unit (Niagara Falls)’ from the drop-down optionsVisit Site
Note: If you make a donation, please notify the family by posting a condolence.
Our condolences to Maggie and the entire family. I just learned of Jim’s passing today. It’s never easy losing someone you love and it’s clear that Jim meant everything to his family. and friends.
Jim Leach, a competitor to the end!! We will miss his gentle smile, boisterous laugh & even his gentle giggle when it was too painful to laugh. You put up a great fight, and we hope that you are now a “dragon fly” on your ranch, free of pain and able to go where you want, do what you want, eat what you want, whenever you want. Fly free Jim!!
Sincere condolences to Maggie and family on the death of Jim.
I have not been in touch for quite a few years but our relationship goes back to the 60’s and the Collegiate rowing team and later when Maggie was a trustee..
Jim was a friend, he will be missed. Sorry for your loss Maggie
Dear Maggie…it has been years since I’ve seen you and Jim but always have fond memories of you both. Jim was such a gentleman and will be truly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Sincere condolences to your entire family. Elizabeth (Thompson) Wilson.
I like to offer my sincere condolences to Jim’s family- knew him with our time at Brock sharing our common interests in basketball – a great guy very personal and always positive and looked forward seeing him yearly during the Breeder ‘s Cup day- surely a gentlemen to the core will surely be missed by his family and his many friends!-John Markovich
Dear Maggie,
My best loving thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Jim, with his beautiful smile and his gentle soul, has touched me in a very special way. I feel blessed that I had the honor to meet such an extraordinary human being.
Maggie and family. I am so sad to read of Jim’s passing. Though it has been many years since we’ve seen each other I always remember him as a kind and caring gentleman. May Jim rest in peace and may all of you find comfort in your memories. Sincerely Jo-Ann Rufrano Sacco
My thoughts go out to the family at this very difficult time. Jim and Maggie became our family too on Trillium unit. It truly was an honour to get to know and care for both Jim and Maggie. I loved listening to all of Jim and Maggie’s stories and adventures. Jim and Maggie became the heart of Trillium unit bringing love, laughter and smiles to all they encountered. Jim you will truly be missed by all of us and have left mark on all our hearts. Jim I promise I’ll try to be good xoxo
My condolences to you Maggie & family of the passing of your loving & wonderful husband Jimmy.May he rest in peace,He’ll be loved, missed, & never forgotten.
Dear Maggie,, your children, grandchildren, Jim’s brothers and friends, we are so sorry for your loss. Jim was such a gentle soul and shared his kindness so easily. We remember some very special moments, Jim being MC at the weddings of our nieces Alison (Joedy), then Carolyn (Adrian), “training” with my dad for the New Years’ day brunch at the St Catharines’ club, bringing home made soup to my parents, fun times at Mic’s cottage. Jim had such a wonderful laugh. You left your mark on many hearts, you will be remembered and loved. RIP Jim
Sincerest condolences to Maggie, Neil, heather and Margo and the Leach family on the passing of beloved Jim. He will be sorely missed and long remembered by the Miller family.
We are so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. We send our heartfelt condolences to you Maggie and all your family and friends.
We have such wonderful memories of our days at Brock and the reunions that followed. We were all starting out our lives. We had so much fun. And who can forget Jim’s famous straw hat trick!!!
Jim was such a sweet gentle man and he will be missed . Safe journey dear friend.
Love Elaine and Butch