Earl Peter Leach

1946 - 2014

Earl Peter Leach obituary, 1946-2014, Spring Hill, FL

BORN

1946

DIED

2014

FUNERAL HOME

Brooksville Chapel

504 E. Jefferson Street

Brooksville, Florida

Earl Leach Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 31, 2014.

Earl P. Leach (Duke), age 67, of Springhill, Florida, formerly of Erie, Pa., died unexpectedly on July 30,2014, while on his way home from a fishing trip with his grandson. He was born on December 22, 1946 in Cranesville,Pa., to the late Earl S. Leach andMary H. Leach. Duke lived a poetic life, a lover of love, living exactly as he wanted. He was self-employed at various occupations and owned his own construction company before a heart attack. His life was surrounded by the love of his grandchildren and fishing. He was a writer of wondrous lyrical compositions that could be published by poets and songwriters alike. In addition to his parents, Duke was preceded in death by a sister, Phyllis Leach; and two half-brothers, Bob Leach and Steve Homansky. He is survived by his beloved, Sally Leach; six daughters, Christina Masotti (Vito) of Springhill, Fla.,Dr. Crystal Coyne of Port Charlotte,Fla., Terrie Carpenter, Trina Leach, Tammy and Theanne Blodgett; and one son, Dan Caldwell of Georgia, with whom he was recently reacquainted; one sister, Mary Theresa Chimenti (Frank) of Erie, Pa.; one half-sister, Martha Stahon (Joseph) of Erie, Pa.; and two half-brothers, Robert Homansky (Chris) of Atlanta, Ga., and Michael Homansky of St.Petersburg, Fla. An abundance of love was received from his grandchildren: Joseph Masotti, whom he eagerly waited to see every day and fish with as often as possible; and granddaughters, Felecia and Adriana Masotti and Cassidy Kehrer. Funeral arrangements are by Turner Funeral Home, Spring Hill, Fla. A private ceremony will be held at a later date by the Gulf, where a memorial will be made to celebrate the life of Duke. Memorial donations may be made to the family in care of: Christina Masotti (for the Duke), 6057 Boatwrite Rd., Spring Hill, FL 34609.



Turner Funeral Homes, 14360 Spring Hill Dr., Sprign Hill, FL 34609

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December 22, 2021

Mary Chimenti

12-22-21, Happy Birthday Duke. I found a saying you'd like and hold so true. "It's hard to turn the page when you know someone won't be in the next chapter but the story must go on". I'm 70 now. What should have been, could have been as siblings ..... Just know that I'm thinking of you and toasting a little toddy to you...a dirty martini with six olives.

Your sister,

Mary T.

July 30, 2021

Crystal Coyne

I'm home this morning on my day off, as I was 7 years ago. Today, I am not here alone. Just finished breakfast with the little guy and talking about the birds fluttering around outside in the sunshine. I wish we still had our morning calls; there have been frustrations, awards and recognitions, advancements, and set backs to have all been shared with you.
I recently returned from a road trip. I took my 16 yr old, Micahs 15 yr old, and our toddler. 9 days with 2 teens and a toddler! Talk about not knowing what to expect! We did some easy hikes to waterfalls, boating with Dan, mural hunting, and touristy stuff throughout each town and city. I soaked up all the adventure in exploring I could. Your words live on. They provide guidance for myself and while giving advice to my other half regarding his relationship with his children. I especially think of you while traveling. You would've enjoyed the cabin in blue ridge.
I love you, daddy. I feel your spirit in the calm morning waters of the bay as the sun rises.

December 24, 2020

Daughter

Crystal Coyne

I imagine you’d be getting ready to spend the holiday out fishing on the boat.

I have been blessed to have another child, a son. A 15 year age gap between the kids means a whole different season of my life and a fresh experience. His room contains many nods to Peter Pan, which is my way for you to be a part of this experience. We look at the map of Neverland and pick our adventure for the day!

I brought him to the memorial gardens and it was much harder than I anticipated. I found peace though. He loves rocks- he collected some nearby and laid them atop your stone so you would know we were there. He is looking more like me at a young age everyday. He has the same thin blonde hair and smile.

Cassidy is now 16 and I’ve been teaching her to drive. I try to give her my time and wisdom whether she wants it or not. I always recall those moments I had with you and know how truly meaningful they are throughout life.

I love you and miss you, Daddy.

Posted by Crystal Coyne

December 22, 2020

Sister

Mary Chimenti

12-22-20 So another year has passed without hearing from you about "life" in Florida. Went to visit your resting place in February 2020. Christina took me to Bayport as well. Can understand why you loved it there as it was a beautiful. Crystal sent a picture of your grandson, Ryker touching your gravestone during their Thanksgiving visit near Springhill. All brought me spiritually closer to you. Happy Birthday Duke. Counting on you being in a better place.

Love, Your Sister, Mary T.

July 30, 2020

Sister

Mary Chimenti

July 30th, 2020 ~ It's been six years since you passed and life went on, as you always said it would. I write so your memory does not fade. Went to visit your grave this past February. Saw where you took your last breath and went to Bayport where you experienced much joy. Each year I write you left us too early. You would have enjoyed your girls and grandkids. And no matter what the doctors would have said, we'd have enjoyed our Irish Whiskey. Till your birthday. Love, Mary T.

July 31, 2019

Bambi Neal

To the old days...gone but not forgotten..so still alive...

July 30, 2019

Can't believe five years have passed today since you left us. I had my class reunion this year and many talked about your swagger and confident demeanor...always a leader, never a follower. Women wanted you and men wanted to be like you. Your daughters have that leadership personality and miss your poetry of life.

Miss you more,

Your sister,

Mary T.

December 21, 2018

Mary Chimenti

Hey Duke, I'm now the same age as you when you left this world....too too young. I'm still learning as I know you were as well. So many adventures yet to come, too little energy. HaHa. May the love you left behind sustain your memory for decades to come. Happy Birthday on 12-22. Cheers!

Your Sister,

Mary T.

March 23, 2018

Bambi N.

I was just thinking of Duke and Sally when I met him on a roadtrip across country. We picked up a crying Sally in Ohio,and headed to California and then Phoenix. I will never forget his kindness to me,and his gas guzzling Olds 98.I did not know he passed,and what was even more ironic,met him in Girard,Pa.with a friend and we both unknowingly lived a few miles away from each other here in Florida. I can remember his love for Sally and hearing Knocking on Heavens Door by Bob Dylan as we all drove through the Rockies in that Olds 98.

December 23, 2017

Your birthday started with thoughts of your life and a smile came easy knowing you lived as you pleased ... well all most. I keep in touch with two of your daughters and they will keep your memory alive well past my days on earth and they will smile while they do so as well. Happy birthday Duke.

Your sister,

Mary Theresa
12-22

October 19, 2017

Crystal Coyne

It's late.... the last two days of 12 hour shifts were so very long and full of rude people. I still have the ones that remind me why I am so passionate about being a pharmacist though. This is my bi-weekly wind down night. I finished writing in my nightly "5 yr mom journal" and as I was getting ready for bed I came across a pic of you in a yellow slicker raincoat fishing from the dock with "harley" the heron beside you. My world stops -for you will not get to watch me on the news next week educate about the flu vaccine nor will I get to tell you about the first class I teach for smoking cessation. Cassidy can't share how wonderful she is doing in her advanced program and how language arts is her forte. Joseph can't share his accomplishments of student government nor can Christina share her schooling and new home excitement. I have taken you along my journey of traveling the world. There's always that special spot that says this is Earl Leach's view if he only chose one in each place I adventure. 2 weeks ago, I hiked 1.5 miles up a rainforest mountain in Belize to a waterfall and pool- then jumped- thinking of those storybook adventures. I'm fighting the fact that my spine is crumbling. I will keep experiencing everything I can in life because that's what I was taught... to be strong and experience life. I love you and miss you so very much.

Posted by Crystal Coyne

July 30, 2017

Crystal Coyne

Posted by Crystal Coyne

December 22, 2016

Mary Chimenti

Happy Birthday, Duke. Was reflecting on those days at the farm, with pictures of you in your leather jacket and trumpet. I know your life was meaningful but wish we had more time to celebrate, especially here in Las Vegas.

December 21, 2016

Adriana

Hi Grandpa!Tomorrow is your birthday, so i wanted to wish you a happy birthday. I miss you coming over for dinner on your birthday and getting to see you often. Even though i know you are still watching us.. :) I can't think of much to say..... but i just wanted to wish you a happy birthday. Lpve you

November 3, 2016

Crystal Coyne

Dad, I have another success that I wish I could share with you. Your words still carried me through the process and guided me. I have continued time on the water (and PBR) in memory of you. We bought a kayak last week and I'm already excited about getting out there and fishing a little more often.
I've done it... I've accomplished most of my goal board and I'm involved in my community. I wish we could have taken that road trip I desired. I've been traveling plenty. I went to Memphis a few weeks ago and you seemed to be everywhere. Learning about Otis Redding and the history of blues and rock n' roll... you somehow seemed to be tied into the soulful music that filled the streets. We (my mom, Cassidy, and I) went to amazing places in AZ this summer and my random stops for pictures and fun resulted in mom telling me that you always said that the unexpected stops along the are what made the trip. As Bonnie Raitt sang in The Road's My Middle Name, "The road's in my blood cause I'm my Daddy's kid." I wish you were here to continue guiding me through my journeys but lucky for me, you had a way with words. You have managed to continue to guide us all. I love you and hope you know that my career successes are owed to you. Thank you for instilling work ethic and drive but most of all for all your belief and support. Remember when I was getting ready to leave for the Army and you drove behind me as I jogged to log the miles? haha. I also remember that the first time I saw you cry was when you saw me in my uniform. I really miss those early calls- I wish I could share my work stories with you. I love you and am so grateful that I had you.

August 30, 2016

Adriana Masotti

Grandpa, you were always the person to put a smile on my face. I would always look forward to coming to your house and spending time with you. You were the type of grandpa that never got tired of me , you always knew when there was something wrong, and you knew what to do about it. I had some of the best times in my life with you. You hold a big part in my heart.
Any time I am at the beach or bayport or out on the boat you are on my mind. There will never be a moment I won't miss you. I can still remember some of our conversations. I remember you teaching me to play cards and helping me fish. I love you

July 31, 2016

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July 31, 2016

Christina Masotti

So, yesterday was two years since you passed. Every single day you cross my mind. Whether it's a song that you used to jam to or a memory of a conversation that we had. Or a thoughtful quote that you used to say. All of us miss you so much. You had touched our lives in so many unexpected ways. I realized it when you were here. But, I realize it even more now. In honor of you yesterday, we took a spontaneous drive to Bayport to catch the sunset & went home to have a homemade banana split. Remembering how much you loved treats. Here's to you & all of the wonderful thoughts & words of wisdom that you left us.

July 30, 2016

Mary Chimenti

Kind thoughts of you all day today. Hard to believe two years have passed. So much has happened and without you to ground me. I can hear you chuckle now with the should haves and could haves. What we think is important one minute has no value the next. A new normal is sought almost every day. For He Himself is our peace. Love you more, Mary T.

July 30, 2015

This year has gone way too fast. Thinking of you with warm memories today and everyday. In reflecting on times together with you & listening to Joyce Meyer I had an AHA moment today!Especially missing discussing these with you.Love you.

April 11, 2015

Crystal Coyne

Here it is....my "holiday" that you are most missed. My birthday is tomorrow and it will be the first one that I remember that I will not have a call from you at the time I was born. I am used to not seeing you on Christmas; Christmas seems to be hard for most grieving families. However, I have discovered that this is the one that I will feel the loss of my father the most. My mother said that if you had a phone, you would call. No matter what has happened over the years, she has never taken away the father you were to me. I am in a great place in my life; I have the career I worked for with the title Dr., my little Red Corvette, my motorcycle, an upcoming 3 week trip to Europe, a daughter that adores me, a home I enjoy, and am basically healthy. I just don't have you to share these things that have been talked about for so many years. I remember you telling me that you wish you had the dedication I have displayed and how proud you are. That is comforting yet I'm so afraid that one day I will not remember the way your voice sounded saying those words. I stop at the Skyway every time I pass and I hope that hear me when I talk to you there. I wish you were here to share my success in the programs I am implementing in my community and I wish so very much that you were here to call me in the morning to tell me Happy Birthday. I miss you, Daddy. I will take you on my next road trip.

December 23, 2014

Christina Masotti

Spent the day with the kids at Hollywood studios on your special day. Wanted to make sure that we escaped the pressure of everyday life to make memories and savor our time together. You & I talked about that often. We had a fantastic day away. And your spirit was with us all day. We heard several songs on the way that made us think of you, specifically, Janis Joplin's " piece of my heart." & Eagles, " peaceful easy feeling." Then we walked into a ride at the park & a scene from a John Wayne movie came on the screen, (one of your favorite cowboys.) Joseph & I looked at each other & said " Grandpa". I cried as I watched Joseph holding his girlfriends hand. Thinking of how it would put a smile on your face & make you cry at the same time. Thank you for all of the little things that you have taught me about taking time to " take care" and appreciate the little moments with my children. That was my way of celebrating you yesterday.

December 22, 2014

Mary Chimenti

My heart is breaking. A personal harmony, a happiness designed unique for your soul was to come your way before leaving this world. Regardless of what others expected, you were ALWAYS a hero to someone every moment of your life...so significant to so many. I did what you asked....happy birthday, Duke.

Love,

Your sister,
Mary Theresa

October 6, 2014

Crystal Coyne

Dad,
I sit here tonight with a heavy heart... I hold the poem that you've always asked me to read at your service. We have an adventure set on the water to spend time celebrating your life...I wish you were able to come along. It's not time for me to follow you home but I am fortunate to have your voice recording cheering me on through my journey. Being able to still hear your voice tell me that you are proud of me continues to inspire me to pursue my medical career goals even further. So, I follow you on my journey that will eventually lead me home.

"Father's Voice"
Years an' years ago, when I
Was jest a little lad,
An' after school hours used to work
Around the farm with Dad;
An' as the sun was settin' low
When eventide was come,
Then I'd get kinder anxious-like
About the journey home.
An' Dad, he used to lead the way,
An' once a while turn 'round an' say,
So cheerin'-like, so tender: "Come,
Come, my son, you're nearly home!"
That allers used to help me some,
And so I followed Father home.

I'm old an' gray an' feeble now,
An' tremble at the knee,
But life seems jest the same today
As then it seemed to me.
For I am still so wearied out,
When eventide is come,
An' still get kinder anxious-like
About the journey home.
An' still my Father leads the way,
An' once a while I hear him say,
So cheerin'-like, so tender: "Come,
Come my son, you're nearly home!"
An' same as then, that helps me some.
And so I'm followin' Father home.

-Unknown

September 29, 2014

Duke was a very good freind with a big heart and loads of love fir his family.we are so happy to say that Duke was one of our best freinds.Linda and Mike Ridoath.

September 17, 2014

Ricky Osborne

I went to school with Earl (Duke) we were close friends back then. He and I had many Good Times together ! Wish we could of stayed in touch. Could actually say..he was the Brother I never had. Sincerely, Ricky Osborne

September 7, 2014

Christina Masotti

Dad, your life was more significant than you could ever imagine. Although, you may not have been in all of our lives at the same time. You left an impression on each one of us. Thank you for teaching me the ABC's (Attitude, Balance, Compromise)of life and for going above and beyond as a Grandpa to my children. The Masotti kids hold a special place in their hearts for Grandpa "DUKE". You always knew how to put a smile on their faces and make them feel special. You will live in us forever and your story will never be forgotten.

August 30, 2014

duke always opened his heart and home to family, he will always be a great man in all of our eyes, he is greatly missed love Brenda Lehman ,Barbara, Cindy and Heather Bosworth

August 24, 2014

Jeanne (Demmery) Brace

I've seen this obit. several times since Earl passed. I went to school with him way back in grade school and I'm very glad to know he was much loved. R.I.P. Earl...

August 14, 2014

Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. His spirit will always live in your hearts. The Carnevali family (Brooklyn, NY)

August 9, 2014

Crystal Coyne

Posted by Crystal Coyne

August 9, 2014

Crystal Coyne

Posted by Crystal Coyne

August 9, 2014

Crystal Coyne

Posted by Crystal Coyne

August 9, 2014

Crystal Coyne

Posted by Crystal Coyne

August 6, 2014

John and Linda Johnson

thoughts and prayers in your time of need ...sending love and prayers from the Johnson family.

August 6, 2014

Jake and Diana Artrip

We send our love and prayers. We will keep you in our hearts, and pray for all of you in this time of need.

August 5, 2014

Pete Artrip

I heard about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

August 5, 2014

Sherman and Cherry Artrip

Thinking of you in your time of need. Sorry for your loss. Love you sis.

August 5, 2014

Jake and Diana Artrip

Your in our thoughts. Our deepest sympathies. Love always!

August 5, 2014

Roy and Connie Fuller

You are in our prayers. We love you. Please call us if you need anything. Love always!
Love Roy and Connie Fuller

August 5, 2014

Susan Rugg

I'm so sorry for your loss. I pray that God is with you and can give you and your family peace. I know that there is not much I can do for you, but my thoughts and prayers are with you.

August 5, 2014

Alice Nichols

My love & heart felt prayers are with you all in your hour of need.

August 5, 2014

Debi Anderson

Condolences to Earls Family. I was married to Chris Anderson in the 70's. I remember Earl, he was the Duke way back then.

August 4, 2014

[email protected]

So long " Duke of Earl " your love of poetry and " Rainbows " will be remembered as well as many other things.

August 4, 2014

Joe & Linda Chromik

So sorry to hear of Earl's passing. We remember him from school and it probably has been 49-50 years since we last saw him. It is good to know that he was much loved and still the same as when we knew him. Our condolences to the family. God Bless you all. Joe and Linda (Hollister) Chromik.

August 4, 2014

Terrie Carpenter

My heart grieves with all of yours as we mourn the passing of my father. He was one of a kind, no one can deny that. I celebrate who he was to me and my children, and am so thankful I got to share the years that I did with him! If any of you would like to get in touch with me, my e-mail address is: [email protected]

August 3, 2014

my condolences. Been many years since I last saw him, but I have many fond memories from when we were young...I literally idolized him

August 3, 2014

charlie caldwell

ill miss you old friend

August 3, 2014

Lil' Duker (Crystal Coyne)

My father taught me to take pride in doing my best and to work hard towards my goals. Additionally and of importance, he taught me how to bait a hook. We each endure life and cope differently and my dad sure lived. His words were spoken with experience and wisdom which carried value. I am appreciative of all the quality time spent fishing, playing scrabble, reading poetry, and discussing life. He caught his last keeper (fish) shortly before his death and I know he wouldn't have asked for anything different. Life will not be the same without our early morning discussions of politics and healthcare but I carry his spirit with me in many of my ambitions and successes.

August 2, 2014

Georgia Busby

My condolences to your family sally

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