Obituary of Robert Leach

Robert “Bob” Leach, 83, of Malone, NY, peacefully passed away on November 15, 2023, surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Bob was born on July 4, 1940 in Chateaugay, New York to John “Niles” and Martha (Carr) Leach, who predeceased Bob many years ago. Bob graduated from North Syracuse schools and then spent four years in the Army. Upon his honorable discharge, Bob went to work for the New York State Department of Transportation as a crane operator and retired after 44 years of service. Throughout his working career, Bob often worked 2 jobs – moonlighting as a lane boss for the Tri-State Auto Auction in Cicero, teaching night classes at the National Tractor Trailer School and working for Penske Trucking. Never one to sit still for long, Bob thoroughly enjoyed his “retirement gig” of transporting cars throughout the country for A & B Classic Cars.
Bob was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend and he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Bob's passions were hunting, fishing, tinkering in his garage and snowmobiling (in his younger years) and he was an avid classic car enthusiast who took great pride in sharing all of his hobbies with his children, grandchildren and friends. Bob was also a member of the Old Timer's Hunting Club and shared an incredibly special bond with his hunting buddies who were like brothers to him. Bob truly was one of a kind – salt of the earth and a true gentleman. An unassuming yet strong presence in our lives, a beautiful example of love, integrity and finding joy in the things that really matter. Bob's hugs were epic – a hug from him was like being wrapped in a big, warm blanket of love. His spirit will forever reign in the hearts of those privileged to be a part of his world.
Bob is survived by his wife Kathy, with whom he shared 32 wonderful years. Their years together were a shining example to all of what a marriage can and should be. Bob is also survived by his daughter Wendy (Mike) Muller of Boonville, son Scott (Joann) Leach of Central Square, and his stepchildren (whom he never referred to as “step”) - Scott (Tami) Koster, Sheryl (Garry) Thompson, Allen Koster and Gregory (Erika) Koster. Bob also leaves behind his loving brother Gary Leach, and beloved sisters Dorcas Tuohey, Nancy Dameron and Janice (Bert) Davis. Bob's 18 beautiful grandchildren and 10 beautiful great-grandchildren, who were the apple of his eye, will miss their “Papa” dearly. Bob is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
There will be no services at this time, however, contributions can be made in Bob's memory to the Cayuga Medical Center Foundation, 101 Dates Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850 or at www.cayugahealth.org, who provided such attentive and expert care to Bob in his final days. 
A “classic car” celebration of life will be held in the Spring to remember and honor this incredible man who filled our worlds with so much love and joy.
Online condolences, www.shepardsonfh.com.

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