Jack R. Leggett, Sr., 93, a longtime resident of Litchfield Park, Arizona died August 9, 2016. A member of the “Greatest Generation,” Jack was born March 8, 1923 in the middle bedroom of the house in which he grew up in Buchanan, Michigan. He learned the value of thrift and hard work during the Great Depression and came of age during World War II, serving as a photographer in the Army Air Corps. One of his enduring memories was being in a jammed and chaotic Times Square on New Year’s Eve 1941, in uniform, just weeks after Pearl Harbor. As he told the story, “No one would let you pay for anything...”
Following his discharge from the Army after an injury that left his hearing damaged, he returned home to Buchanan and explored a number of jobs. He managed a supermarket and ran a service station. He also delivered house trailers across America from Texas to New Hampshire—one often told story involving the delivery of a 35 foot house trailer towed through icy mountains in the winter, by a car with bad brakes. Despite that experience, Jack always loved long drives and continued to drive from Arizona to visit Buchanan until he was in his mid-80s.
In his spare time, Jack played drums in swing bands all around southwestern Michigan. And as the war came to an end, a friend’s girlfriend introduced him to her sister, Jane Albright, from Niles, Michigan. Jane and Jack were married June 14, 1946 and were together until Jane died nearly 40 years later in 1985.
After he was married, Jack pursued his love of photography and, with Jane, ran a photo studio in Buchanan. But looking for a more secure occupation to support the family that eventually included sons Jack, Jr (Mary Beth), Stephen (Susan) and Philip (Lori); Jack, Sr. used the GI Bill to earn a degree in accounting. After living in Buchanan for many years, Jack and Jane moved to Litchfield Park in 1972, where Jack continued to work as an accountant, comptroller and purchasing agent until his retirement at age 68. Not one to be idle, he continued to volunteer as Treasurer for the Church at Litchfield Park and also served as a deacon for many more years. He is survived by his sons, daughters in law and four grandchildren: Emily Leggett, Anthony Leggett, Jack Leggett, III, and Grace Leggett.
Jack will be interred in the Garden of Memories at the Church at Litchfield Park, alongside Jane. A memorial and Celebration of Jack’s life is planned at the Church at Litchfield Park at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 24, 2016. Following the memorial, there will be a reception at the church. In honor of Jack’s favorite beverage and desert, refreshments will include apple pie and coffee.
The family suggests donations be made to Disabled American Veterans (Jack was a life member.)
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