Paul J. Leach

SALEM - Paul Jay Leach, 81, died Monday, August 4, 2025, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by family.

Paul, affectionately known by many as "PJ," was born on December 16, 1943, in Salem, Ohio, the son of Elizabeth (Hinckley) Falk and Paul Joseph Leach.

A lifelong resident of the Salem community, Paul was a graduate of Salem High School, Class of 1961. Paul began his career working in local tool & die shops, while attending Kent State University, earning his bachelor's degree in biology. He later worked for many years at Salem Stamping as a supervisor and retired from GM Lordstown as a quality control engineer.

On November 21, 1970, Paul wed the former Victoria J. Snyder, and they were blessed with two children and later welcomed the addition of their grandson. A devoted husband and dad, Paul's heart was always focused on the well-being of his family, and he took immense pride in providing for them.

Paul was a member of the Salem Elks Lodge 305 and the Independent Hose Co., where he enjoyed the camaraderie and shared many a Mondays playing cards with fellow members.

An avid outdoorsman, Paul found peace in the beauty of nature. He was passionate about hunting and fishing, especially on the waters of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Paul and his wife, Vicki, spent their last 11 winters in Venice, Florida, where they embraced the serene coastal life, enjoying the sunshine and strolling along the beach.

Paul's talents extended beyond his professional achievements. A jack-of-all-trades with a knack for mechanics, he took pride in completing home and auto projects with his own hands. In retirement, he generously offered his skills to help family and friends with their projects. Paul's love for cars was epitomized by his cherished 1974 Chevy Corvette, the first new car he purchased and still owned.

Those who knew Paul will fondly remember his witty sense of humor, his outgoing personality, and his generosity in helping others.

Paul leaves to carry on his memory, his wife, Vicki; children, Erika (Alex) Negretti of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland and Ryan (Avery Skiver) Leach of Boardman; grandson, Joshua Meissner of Salem; siblings, Rebecca Erb, Linda Riggle, Mary Beth (Sam) Kirkland, Carolyn (Ted) Marroulis, Sharon Willey, and Melissa (Bruce) Miller; and in-laws, William (Susan) Snyder, Judith (Doug) Smith, Jack (Nancy) Snyder, and Linda (Dennis) Kimble.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his stepfather, Edward Falk, who raised him from a young age.

Family and friends will be received from 4-6 p.m., on Monday, August 11, 2025, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home, 1014 E. State St., Salem, where an Elks service will be held at 6 p.m. followed by a concluding blessing prayer.

Memorial contributions can be made in Mr. Leach's name to the American Cancer Society by visiting www.cancer.org, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Paul's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.