Kathleen Ann Leach

March 25th, 1947 - July 25th, 2021

Kathleen's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Kathleen here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

Kathleen was a 1965 graduate classmate of mine, she will always be remembered by the sweet smile and her kind heart for others. She was a great example to all who knew her for her example of a Proverbs 31 wife -- a great mom to Chet and Phillip and still having time to reach out to others.

We loved overlapping with Kathleen, Jeff and family; spending time with them in the out of doors climbing mountains in Denver, hiking to the lake close to their home, running down the sand dunes, riding the zip line in their back yard or singing and fellowshipping around their campfire. She was a great hostess showing God's love to those who entered their home. We are thankful for and cherish the memories we have of Kathleen and family.

Barbara Ann Burrell

"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies......a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised." Proverbs 31
Kathleen Roche Leach was the epitome of a virtuous woman who deserves to be praised. This is not flowery __ just reality __ in keeping with Kathleen's wishes.
As first cousins, we shared many happy times during our childhood years in rural Freeland, Michigan. Sweet memories.
Thank you Philip for your precious letters, cards, artwork keeping me connected. Thank you Jennifer for your thoughtful message and link to this site. Thank you Jeff for taking such good care of Kathleen.
Though I am far away in Oregon, my heart is there with you all. I know God is surrounding you with His love and will provide comfort through your sorrow.

Marie Merriam Willhoite & son Marcus

I tranferred to the Freeland School District in the 4th grade and really came to know Kathleen well beginning in 7th grade. It seemed like we had many classes together, and Kathleen was a wonderful student. In fact, I think my grades improved just by knowing her and wanting to do well because of her example. We were also in singing groups and band together. I must admit that we shared a few quite a few giggles in our geometry class. She was such a positive influence to those around her and I know it was because of her commitment to her faith in Jesus. I'm sure we connected on a deeper level because of that shared faith.
We often ate lunch together and her frosted carrot cookies were a favorite "trade" sometimes. I so enjoyed them that I still have that recipe, written in her precise handwriting, in my recipe file box!!!
After marriage and my moving to Iowa we lost tract of each other, but I'm so thankful we were able to re-connect around the time of the 50th Freeland High School Reunion. Jeff and Kathleen invited Steve and I to dinner and a tour of their amazing acreage on our way back to Iowa. It was a sweet time of fellowship that I will always treasure.
So many memories come flooding back: her blond braids, her carefull use of thread in Home Ec. class, her quiet sense of humor, and a beautiful smile.
I will always count it a blessing to have known her, and will treasure her memory until we meet again at the feet of Jesus.