Robert "Bob" Edwin Leach

Robert “Bob” Leach age 85 of formerly of Fredericksburg died Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at Unity Point St. Lukes Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at Peace United Church of Christ, Fredericksburg with Rev. Scott Smith presiding. Burial will take place at Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg following the service with Colton Leach, Elizabeth Leach, Aidan Leach, Lauren Moenk, Neil Jelinek, and Danny Leach serving as pallbearers.  His nieces & nephews will be serving as honorary pallbearers.

Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in Fredericksburg have been entrusted with arrangements.

Born on June 29, 1939, in Waverly, Iowa, to proud parents Derwood and Maxine (Potratz) Leach, Bob’s early years were characterized by a rustic charm, including his memorable rides to a country school in Fredericksburg, Iowa, on horseback.

Bob’s education continued at Sumner High School for his freshman and sophomore years, culminating in his graduation from Fredericksburg High School in 1958. Demonstrating a passion for mechanics early on, he furthered his education in Kansas City, Missouri, where he attended mechanic school, honing the skills that would define his professional and personal life.

A patriot at heart, Bob served his country with honor and was honorably discharged from the Iowa National Guard in June of 1964. That same year marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership as he married his beloved wife, Glenice Slick. Together, they welcomed two children into the world, Robert H. and Amy, who brought immense joy and pride to Bob’s life.

Bob’s career at John Deere spanned over three decades, where he dedicated 34 years of service before retiring in 1994.

Beyond his professional life, Bob was an avid lover of classic cars. His hands, always ready to tinker and fix, spent countless evenings working on his cherished vehicles. Weekends found Bob in his element, attending car shows and swap meets, a testament to his love for the craftsmanship and beauty of vintage automobiles.

Bob’s life was one marked by dedication: to his family, his work, and his passions. Those who knew him will remember his skilled hands and the way his eyes lit up when discussing the inner workings of an engine or the sleek lines of a classic car. His presence at car shows will be deeply missed, as will the wisdom and camaraderie he shared with fellow enthusiasts.

After a brief battle with pneumonia, Bob’s final days were spent at St. Luke’s Unity Point Hospital. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the nurses and doctors whose care and compassion were a comfort to Bob and his loved ones during this difficult time.

Bob is survived by his wife Glenice Leach of La Porte City, Ia; son Robert H. (Tara) Leach of Elgin, Ok; daughter Amy (Richard) Moenk of Marion, Ia; brothers: Jim Leach of McPherson, Ks, Randy (Mary Jane) Leach of Fredericksburg, Ia, and Leon (Robbie) Leach of Waterloo, Ia; sister Linda (Rick) Marszalek of Mundelein, IL; grandchildren: Colton (Kylee) Leach, Elizabeth Leach, Aidan Leach, and Lauren Moenk; great-grandchildren: Rosslynn and Wren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in the death by his parents Derwood and Maxine (Portratz) Leach; and brothers Gerry and Butch Leach.

(563) 237-6212