Dean R. Leech

Dean R. Leech, 60, of Meadville, passed away Thursday, September 12, 2013 at home following a sudden illness.

He was born April 15, 1953 in Meadville, a son of Robert and Lorraine Rothrock Leech.  He married Jody Bell October 9, 1976 and she survives.

Dean was a 1971 graduate of Meadville Area Senior High and graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Engineering at the top of his class in 1975.  He could have worked anywhere but chose to come home and work at his father’s business which was then Leech Tool & Die and now is Leech Industries, Inc.  At his death, he was president of the company and had worked there for 38 years.

Dean loved the New York Yankees, went to see them play as often as he could, loved to farm, loved a good cigar, and loved hunting and spending time at his family’s hunting camp.  He also loved to read and was the smartest man his family ever knew.  He enjoyed his children’s friends and spent time with them anytime he had a chance.

Survivors, in addition to his loving wife Jody of almost 37 years, include three children, his daughters Lindsy J. Leech Scholtz and her husband Stephen of Fairlawn, NJ and Ashley A. Leech of Boston, MA; his son, Garrett R. Leech and his wife Shalon of Meadville; and his two blessed grandchildren, Zander and Ella.  He also had several children from his neighborhood and beyond growing up that were always at the house that he considered his own.  He is also survived by three brothers, his twin Darrel S. Leech and his wife Cheryl, Kevin E. Leech and his wife Kim, and Michael B. Leech and his wife LeeAnn, all of Meadville; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Travis and a nephew, Jason.

Calling hours will be Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut St., Meadville where the funeral service will follow at 5:00 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. Brian Jensen, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Crawford County, 464 Pine St., Meadville, PA 16335.

Share your memories and condolences at waidfuneralhome.net.