William James Timothy Leach

William James Timothy Leach

May 10, 1932 – October 31, 2026

William James Timothy Leach, 94, passed away on October 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of artistic talent, craftsmanship, devotion to family, and a life well lived.

Born on May 10, 1932, in Shellbrook, Saskatchewan, Canada, William was the son of James Ernest Leach and Mary Neal Neilson. Throughout his life, he demonstrated a remarkable appreciation for art, engineering, and the creative process, interests that would shape both his professional career and personal pursuits.

William earned both a Masters of Science degree and Bachelor of Arts, reflecting his dedication to education and his diverse intellectual interests. He shared his passion for art with young minds as an art teacher in Arkansas City, Kansas, where he encouraged creativity and artistic expression.

His professional career also included work as a technical illustrator for two of America's most recognized aviation manufacturers, Cessna Aircraft Company and Beechcraft Corporation. Combining his artistic abilities with a keen eye for mechanical detail, William contributed his talents to the aviation industry, where precision and creativity went hand in hand.

Outside of his professional life, William was an accomplished artist and an enthusiastic plastic scale model builder. He particularly enjoyed airbrushing, painting, and creating intricately detailed models. His patience, attention to detail, and artistic skill were evident in everything he created. For William, art was more than a profession or pastime; it was a lifelong passion and a means of expressing his creativity.

Above all, William leaves behind the love and memories of his family. He is survived by his wife, Jonna (Ochs) Leach; his son, James; five grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren, who carry forward his memory and legacy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Ernest Leach and Mary Neal Neilson; his sister, Mary Moeny; his brother, Douglas Leach; and his daughter, Mary Louise Schultz.

William will be remembered for his creativity, his skilled hands, his appreciation for the smallest details, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those who knew and loved him. His artistic accomplishments, dedication to his craft, and the generations of family he leaves behind stand as lasting reminders of a remarkable life.

His was a life measured not simply in years, but in the things he created, the knowledge he shared, and the love he leaves behind.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Memories may be shared with the family on William's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory-Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.