Photo courtesy of Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home - Anoka
Anoka, Minnesota
Dec 13, 1976 – Sep 24, 2018
Leach, James "Chum" L. II age 41 of Coon Rapids passed away unexpectedly on September 24, 2018. He loved his wife, family, friends and Rock and Roll. He was a graduate of William Mitchell College of Law and served as a public defender for Redwood County. He loved law and was a defender of all people. "I live my life like there's no tomorrow." Preceded in death by grandparents, Donald & Betty Basara; fraternal grandfather, William Leach; uncle, Christopher Leach. Survived by his wife, Lindsey; parents, James & Kathie, sister, Heather (Chad) Hoffman; brother, Cory Leach (Fazdlee Isa); grandmother, Janet Leach; 5 nephews & 1 niece who loved him dearly, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday (9/29/2018) at 12 noon with a visitation one hour prior at North Star Community Church, 11640 Crooked Lake Blvd NW, Coon Rapids. Interment Morningside Memorial Garden in Coon Rapids. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred.
Thurston-DeShaw Funeral Home
Andover 763-767-7373
www.thurston-deshaw.com
Thank you for your kind words Erica Strohl. I am his Mom. My husband and myself were so proud of him and he was such a bright spot in our lives. He loved law so much and was such an Intelligent person. Our hearts are forever broken. He died suddenly of an aortic dissection due to a heart defect he was born with that we never knew he had.
Leach Kathie
January 29, 2019 | Mother
I just learned of James' passing in the Mitchell Hamline school magazine. He was my student in his first year of law school. I remember well his quiet confidence and concern for others. I am so sorry to hear of his death. Although I have not seen him since graduation, I have no doubt that he did wonderful work as a public defender and made a difference to his clients. My sympathies to his family and friends for this deep loss of a wonderful young person.
Erica Strohl
January 23, 2019 | St Louis Park, MN | Teacher
Lyndsey, I am Jordans mom. I still see Chum the night the band played at my bar in Stanley,WI. I was so honored to meet the two of you. Such a beautiful couple. My heart is breaking for you. You and your loved ones are in my thoughts and prayers. Ill never forget how kind Chum was to Jordan. Jordan loves him dearly. Such a wonderful young man who will be sorely missed. Treasure every beautiful memory. God Bless you, dear young lady
Catherine Jeske
September 27, 2018 | Stanley, WI | Friend
To Lindsey, Jim, Kathie, Heather, Chad, Cory, Fazdlee and everyone Chum touched.....He was amazing!!!! Every time I think of Chum I smile and feel good. His laughter was contagious, his smile so very warm. I'm so grateful for all the wonderful Chum memories. He will always be in our hearts. Love you Chum!!!
Vicki & Dan Fox
September 27, 2018 | Arvada, CO | Family
My condolences too all who knew Chum. We went too school together he was a Great, Funny, and Fun person he will be missed. Prayers for all Family and Friends.
Sharron Starlet (Garrison)
September 27, 2018 | Mora, MN | Classmate
My Prayers And Condolences To Lindsey And The Rest Of The Family. You All Loved Him But GOD Loved Him More. He Needed Another Angel Home. ❤
Ametria Esposito
September 26, 2018 | Tempe, AZ | Friend
I cant stop looking at the beautiful photo of your beloved Chum. On his special day. The twinkle in his eye. Big grin. Ready to rock and roll. Kathie & Jim, you raised one heck of a kid. Love and prayers, Smithie
Kathy Smith-Boever
September 26, 2018 | Blaine, MN
I got to know Chum & Lindsey through the VFW, I always looked forward to seeing them there. I so enjoyed Chum's low key way of looking at life. He was obviously a brilliant man, yet he never boasted of his talents. I so admired him and loved spending time with him. God speed Chum, my friends will show you around your new home till we meet again some day.... Peace brother.
Bob Von Vett
September 26, 2018 | Coon Rapids, MN | Friend
Much love and condolences to you Lindsey. May your memories eventually bring you peace.
Krista Miller
September 26, 2018 | Morris, MN | Family