Walter Leach

Walter W. Leach, Jr., 78, of Nashua, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 6, 2017 at St. Joseph Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Utica, NY, Walter was the son of the late Walter Leach, Sr. and Alice (Rahn) Leach. Talented with his hands, Walt was a tool maker and CNC machinist for over 50 years. Prior to retirement, Walt had been employed as a designer with DEKA Research and Development.

A dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Walt's family and friends were paramount in his life. His greatest passion and source of happiness was to love those around him and make others happy. Walt's zest for life was contagious for all who knew and loved him. Walt took great pleasure in photographing his family, friends, and nature scenes. In his spare time, Walt loved to take in the sights and sounds of beautiful New Hampshire. He enjoyed canoeing, fishing, hiking, and all forms of wildlife. He found great solace in listening to the music of the ocean. A gifted musician and songwriter, Walt was a self-taught artist, playing the guitar, electric bass, banjo, and keyboard. He had an intricate network of dear friends in the local music scene. A devoted member of his community, Walt often volunteered his musical talents at the Easterseals in Manchester and the Nashua Senior Center. Loved by many, Walt had a quick wit, a great passion for life, and a soft heart for each of his many friends and family members.

Walt is survived by his beloved wife, Jeane McEwan, with whom he shared 28 years of marriage; two daughters and sons-in-laws, Susan Leach-Morgan and Eric Morgan of NH, and Sharon Reihl and Richard Reihl, Sr. of NY; three grandchildren, Richard Reihl, Jr., Brittany Jackson, and Trevin Morgan, and their families; two step-grandchildren, Greg Morgan and Brandy Morgan, and their families; sister, Norma Rawson of CA; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and dear friends.

ARRANGEMENTS: Walt's Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering will be held at the Cremation Society of New Hampshire, 243 Hanover St., Manchester, in the Phaneuf Funeral Home, on Friday, March 10, from 4:00 to 6:00. Friends and relatives are invited to gather with the family following the service to continue sharing Walt's memory. Light refreshments will be served. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Walt's memory to the Easterseals of NH, Attn: Development Dept., 555 Auburn St., Manchester, NH 03103 or to the Seacoast Science Center, 570 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH 03870.