Leach, James Lawrence Attn: Local Carpenters/Tapers/Plasterers Trade Union Members Age 66, of Ham Lake, MN passed away peacefully of a sudden heart attack on March 27th while relaxing in his favorite recliner in Cozumel, Mexico. He was enjoying his very first winter of retirement, with his wife Kathie (Basara) Leach, at the cozy jungle cabins he dreamed about for over a decade, and had achieved with five years of determination and working with the local Cozumel people to shape such a unique & beautiful place. Those close to Jim know that although he was taken from us suddenly, the true suffering that took him was that of a broken heart, after the loss of his son, James (CHUM) Lawrence Leach II, in 2018. We find some comfort and peace that they are reunited in heaven. Also preceded in death by his father, William Leach; brother, Christopher; Several Uncles, Grandmother, Jennie Wood, and other family, friends, and tradesmen that he admired. Survived by his wife of over 45 years, Kathie; Daughter, Heather (Chad) Hoffman; Daughter-In-Law, Lindsey; Son, Cory (Fazdlee); Mother, Janet; Siblings, Vicki (Dan) Fox; Nancy (Mike) Horsch; William (Diane); Steven (Caryl), John (Robbin), Lawrence (Margaret). Also survived by very special Aunt and Uncle, Buck & Sally Timmers. Also, many cousins, nieces and nephews not to be forgotten but too numerous to list. Jim was a man that loved family and friends to be around him, would invite as many as he could anywhere. When planning gatherings, parties, hunting trips, fishing trips, or traveling to his place in Cozumel, when asked who to get the word out to visit, he would always answer; "The more the merrier!" Jim was a true original, living to the beat of his own drum. Always questioning authority and making his own path. Leading others and never afraid, he gave us much to be proud of and enjoy. We recall the joy of karaoke night watching him belt out, "I Did it My Way." He was a member of the VFW having served in the Navy. After the Navy years and Marriage to Kathie, Jim found his way into the construction business as a Union Carpenter in order to provide for his family. He spent a number of years working his way up in local drywall firms, eventually breaking out on his own. The company he started over 27 years ago; Commercial Drywall, Inc., continues through the partnership and leadership of; his daughter Heather, very special Nephews, Andrew & Alex Leach; Brother, John Leach and many loyal and longstanding team members. We would like to make a special mention of Joe Amos, Danny (Frog) Jones and Wes Schindler. Jim found great enjoyment in his employees and business relationships, many of them becoming meaningful over the years. You know who you are. There are lessons for those left behind; be yourself, work hard, enjoy life, don't take things too seriously, give and help others, you can't take it with you, tell the truth, and never hold a grudge. The most important thing in life is doing the right thing, and to spend time with those we love. He would want to be remembered for the love and support he gave his family, how much he loved his wife, how he built up the lives and confidence of his children, and encouraged everyone to live a happy life and to do great things. Due to the restrictions on gatherings at this time, a "Celebration of Life" is on hold, until it can be done his way. An announcement will be made in the future. Memorials in his name, in lieu of flowers, may be sent to Sharing and Caring Hands, Mpls, MN, or North Star Community Church, Coon Rapids, Minnesota.