Dorothy Ann Leach

Dorothy Ann Leach (nee Schmidt) was born in Chicago IL to German immigrant parents Otto and Anna Schmidt. She grew up in Chicago where she worked as a switchboard operator prior to marrying Jim Leach in 1954. Dorothy and Jim moved to Downers Grove IL, where they raised their 4 children. In 1983, Jim was given the option of moving his entire department at GTE to Phoenix Arizona. He left the decision to Dorothy, who said “Let's do it”. So, in January 1984, they left with their dog Max, for the Valley of the Sun and never looked back. Dorothy loved living in Phoenix; seeing (and riding in) hot air balloons, roadrunners, watching quail families in the backyard, and going on scenic drives. Dorothy and Jim delighted in all the family and friends who would come to visit; hosting many gatherings in their home. Dorothy was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was a sweet lady, who cared deeply for others. She was an active church member, where she sang in the choir, taught vacation bible school, and served in the altar guild. Dorothy was an avid bowler, dog lover, card and slot machine player. Dorothy and Jim loved to travel, from family camping trips to traversing Europe. She treasured spending time with her children and their spouses, grandchildren, great granddaughters, family and friends. Dorothy's (and husband Jim deceased) life was blessed with their children; Deborah, Nancy Stellmach (Gary deceased) Betty Sahs (Dale) and David (Carrie); grandchildren; Kimberly Riley (Shaun), Bradley Sahs (deceased), Rachel Barrett (deceased) and Geoffrey Sahs; step- grandchildren Sara Murphy, Catherine Murphy-Persinger (Dave), Kyle Murphy, and Nathan Wilson (Kareen); great grandchildren Mackenzie, Sierra, Cassidy and step-great grandchildren Payton, Taylor, Emily and Korben James.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Dorothy Leach’s honor to St Mark Lutheran Church, 3030 E Thunderbird Rd, Phoenix AZ 85032.