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James Leach Obituary
James was born on Dec. 14, 1938, in Fulton, Mo., to James and Euba Leach. James attended high school in Fulton, where he met his future wife, Sarah Ann Leach. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1967. He went on to attend the University of Missouri receiving a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). James moved to Alaska in 1973, and became owner of the Chester Valley Veterinary Hospital. In 1986, Dr. Leach established the Big Lake Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Leach was an artist, servant of his church and to veterinary medicine.
Family states, "In the name of Jesus Christ, for every joy that passes, something beautiful remains."
James is survived by his wife, Sarah Ann Leach; sons, Jim Leach IV of Oregon, and Tab Leach of Missouri; along with five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, June 2, 2019, at 4 p.m., at the Faith Bible Fellowship Church, 14225 Kluane Drive, Big Lake, AK 99652. Dr. Leach is to be interred at Ebenezer Cemetery in Fulton, Mo.
Family requests memorial bequests be sent to the Alaska Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, 12235 Birch Road, Houston, AK 99694.
Arrangements were entrusted to Janssen's Mat-Su Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Leach
Michael Williams
July 15, 2020
Our hearts and pets and sad at his passing, but his legacy will live forever! His sharing of his time & talents with our pets and family will never be forgotten. The world was a better place with his soul here:) Hugs and Love to Annie & Sarah Ann
Debra Jones
June 29, 2019
In 2017, due to a schedule mishap, the Petrified Forest was able to let me share James and Annie's time in the park so they stayed in a mobile home and I was in the casita. I knew of his illness and just found this notification of his passing. I have stayed in passing touch with a few of his kids. What a wonderful life and I admire his dedication to his art and love for the wild things.
I am thinking of you all at this time.
Grateful to have know him
Ilona Spector Dorn
June 16, 2019
I worked for Dr. Leach and Annie for several weeks in 1990 during my last year of vet school. It was the absolute best time of my life. What amazing memories! I'm so grateful to have had that opportunity. Also very grateful we had the chance to catch up again last summer.
Wishing peace and comfort to the Leach family during this sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lane Preston
June 6, 2019
Jim's Yakutat lectures were always standing room only.My kids[triplets] and I were always in awe of Jim and his adventures. He will be greatly missed in Yakutat.
Kiska, 80-pound sled dog wannabe
Shelia Cassidy
June 3, 2019
Sled dogs and animals in general have lost a true friend. And his Iditerod friends will miss him for sure. May he rest in peace.
Terry Phillips
June 2, 2019
ANNIE I loved Jim so much. He kept VFAA in good working order and others to do the same. I will surely miss him!
Cindy Evans
June 2, 2019
Dr Leach and Annie gave me my first job out of high school at their vet clinic in Anchorage.
I remember those days as if yesterday.
Prayers for Annie and the family as you await the day when you will all meet again.
1Thess 4:16-18
Susie DeFreest
June 1, 2019
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. He taught me so much.
June 1, 2019
My deepest condolences to your family for the loss of your love one. May your cherished memories created, brighten your days and help sustain you at this time. John 6:40 gives much comfort by looking forward to Jesus promise of seeing your love one again
Shelia
Doug & Connie VanWingerden
May 30, 2019
Heaven has become more dear. Annie and family you are in our thoughts and prayers as you adjust to the loss of your Jim.
May 30, 2019
I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort from the loving promise of seeing our dear loved ones again (John 6:40). Please accept my deepest condolences.
Corky Brown
May 30, 2019
Tab, my condolences for your loss. We were thinking of Talon on Memorial Day. Prayers for your family and may your faith sustain you until you meet again.
Nerida
May 30, 2019
May the God of all comfort strengthen the entire family and may you find true hope and comfort in God's word. Psalm 148:18 Sorry for your loss.
Susan Winingham
May 30, 2019
One of my favorite people has passed on. There world is short another good guy. I will miss you Jim.
Annie and family - hugs and condolences to you.
balfour williams
May 30, 2019
My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of James and may the God of comfort strengthen you all at this time
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Janssen’s Mat-Su Funeral Home - Palmer6901 E. Blue Lupine Drive, Palmer, AK 99654
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