ROCKLAND — Louis V. Leach, Sr., 74, died peacefully, yet unexpectedly, following a brief battle with cancer, Saturday, May 11, 2024 at the Sussman Hospice House in Rockport. He was surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Rockland, September 16, 1949, he was the son of Austin and Charlene Collins Leach.

On his birthday in 1966, Mr. Leach married his sweetheart, Gloria Merrifield in Camden. Together they have enjoyed almost 60 years of marriage.

He was a hard worker his entire life. Over the years he held various jobs, doing whatever was necessary to support his family. An avid NASCAR fan, he enjoyed watching the races with his family. He was a past member of the Rockland Lodge of Elks, serving a term as Exalted Ruler. Fishing was another favorite pastime that brought him and his family together.

He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Predeceased by two grandsons; Mr. Leach is survived by his wife, Gloria Leach of Rockland; his children, Louie Leach, Jr. and his wife Heather of Johnson City, Tennessee, Pamela Dodge and her husband Timothy of Rockland, Holli Jewell and her husband Sean of Washington; ten grandchildren; five great-grandchildren with one on the way; and a large loving extended family, including his siblings and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 11 a.m., at West Rockport Cemetery, Park Street, Rockport.

To share a memory or condolence with the Leach family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.