John Harry Leach

John Harry Leach, born in Philadelphia on September 18, 1943, passed away on January 29, 2021 from COVID pneumonia. He lived for twenty years in Jenkintown and had a full life devoted to family, sailing, reading, and sports. He grew up in East Falls, graduated from Roxborough HS, attended Penn State, served in Vietnam as an Army air traffic controller, then graduated from Villanova University. He was married for 32 years to Joan Horvath with whom he has two daughters, Emma MacLaren Leach and Sara Calista Leach. Two previous marriages ended in divorce. John is survived by his sister, Martha Precht of Jenkintown, PA.; brothers-in-law James Horvath and his wife Annette Stec Horvath, of New Brunswick, NJ; and Peter Horvath and his wife Donna Piersol Horvath of New Holland, PA., niece Katie, and nephews Joe and Andrew Horvath. John enjoyed working with his hands to remodel and transform every home that he and Joan shared. He loved sailing on Barnegat Bay and was a member of the Seaside Park Yacht Club. He was a voracious reader and equally ardent sports fan faithfully following the 76ers, Eagles, Penn State football, basketball and women’s volleyball. John was a tall, quiet, thoughtful man who was a reliable touchstone for his daughters’ many friends. He was kind and never said a hurtful word about anyone. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private burial service with full military honors will be held at Washington Crossing National Cemetery. A celebration of John’s life is planned when COVID restrictions allow for safe gathering. Condolences www.mcgoldrickfh.com