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2005 at Rapelje Lodge in Welland, Willa Miriam Leach (nee
Beamer) of Smithville, in her 76th year. Beloved wife for 53
years of George Leach. Loving mother of Jeff and Janice
Leach of Kapuskasing, and of Rob and Jane Leach of
Listowel. Cherished by her grandchildren Jason, Craig,
Connor, Larkin and Zoe. She will also be missed by her
brother-in-law George Marshall, and many nieces and
nephews. Predeceased by her sisters Geneva Lewis,
Geraldine Marshall, Verlie Forand and Mary Beamer.
Together with her husband George they operated a farm in
St. Anns, and Willa was a feature writer for the Niagara
Farmers' Monthly community newspaper. She was an
enthusiastic member of the West Lincoln Women's Hockey
Team, a winning team player for the Plymouth Cordagettes
of Welland as Ontario Intermediate Fastball Champions,
achieved her Black Belt in Karate, won numerous Ontario
championships for bait casting, and many other
achievements. Willa was an active and devoted member of
her community and touched the lives of many as a long-time
volunteer of T.E.A.D. of Hamilton, coach of girls sports in
Smithville, and NDBRA basketball referee. A service of
remembrance was held at Merritt Funeral Home in
Smithville on Friday, December 30, 2005 at 11 am. Rob
and Jeff Leach both spoke of family times and the
leadership of Willa as their mother and in the community.
Willa's niece Sandy Bibeau also spoke of past times shared
on the farm, and her oldest grandson, Jason, spoke of the
life lessons Willa passed on to the next generation. Ivan
Carruthers offered remembrances of working with Willa at
the newspaper and in the sports community, and Sunny
McCollum talked of their long-time friendship and the lasting
contributions and support Willa gave to girl's and women's
sports in West Lincoln. A time of fellowship continued at the
Smithville United Church hall. Cremation has taken place.
If desired, memorial contributions to the Alzheimer Society of
Niagara Region can be made through the funeral home
(905) 957-7031 or merritt-fh.com. Special thanks Sharon
McMaster, Sandy Bibeau, to Dr. Arthur Comley, the Staff of
Smithville Medical Centre, the Smithville UCW, and the Staff
of Rapelje Lodge and its many volunteers with particular
thanks to the Staff of House 300 for their kindness and
tremendous care.
Click here to make a memorial donation.