He was born December 24th, 1935 at home in Leavenworth, Kansas. He was the son of Everett K. Leach, Sr. and Frances Catherine Piniecki.
Ernest spent part of his childhood in Bain City, and greatly enjoyed recounting memories of his time there. He was educated in the Leavenworth Catholic School system where he was always an exceptional student.
He entered the Army in 1958 and completed a peacekeeping mission in Germany, serving as a cook to his fellow soldiers. He was honorably discharged and was awarded a good conduct medal for his service in 1960.
In 1969, Ernest became employed by the VA Medical Center in Leavenworth where he served as a dietitian for his fellow veterans for over 30 years before retiring. He was highly dedicated to his work there and took great pride in rendering care for the veterans.
After retiring, he enjoyed watching baseball and football games with his beloved brother Bud, gardening, listening to old country music, and spending time with his nieces and great nieces.
He had a great sense of humor and loved telling stories of his childhood in Bain City, his time in basic training with Elvis, his adventures in the Army, and his carefree times with his brother and friends during their young adulthood in downtown Leavenworth.
Ernest is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Everett "Bud" K. Leach, Jr, Robert "Bob" E. Leach, an infant brother, his niece Kimberly Cooper, and his brother-in-law Pat Cooper.
He is survived by his sisters, Agnes "Susie" Brushwood and Frances "Sue" Cooper, both of Leavenworth. He is also survived by his nieces Rosie (Bill) Henshaw, Grace Frost, Kendra (Charles) Marquis; nephews Richard (Linda) Cooper, Patrick (Holly) Cooper; his great nieces Shannon, Christian, Suzanne, Alyssa, Sheila, Michelle, Crystal, Angel, Quinn, Cara, and Dawn; his great nephew Christopher, his great great nieces Savannah, Tessa, Jocelyn, Madison; and his great great nephews Kenji, Jordan, William C., Cody, R.J., Isiah, and Landon.
Ernest was cherished and will be deeply missed.
He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at the VA to be attended by close family members. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Belden-Larkin Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Condolences may be sent to www.beldenlarkin.com.
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