Donald A. Leach died from complications related to DISH (Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis) on October 15, 2023.

Don was born in 1930 in Seattle, a son of Shirley W. and Grace Leach. He attended schools in Portland, Seattle, and Bothell where he graduated from high school in 1948. Don served in the armed forces, then attended the University of Washington. When the Korean conflict began, he was called to become a communications specialist in Korea. He then resumed his education at UW, graduating in 1954.

"Mr. Leach" taught and coached basketball and football in both Wapato and Kalama High Schools before moving to Burlington with his wife Ardelle and two children in 1959. He taught algebra and advanced algebra while acting as the head basketball coach and assistant football coach at Burlington-Edison High School. He retired in 1991. Due to his numerous coaching successes, in 1997 Don was inducted into the Washington Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame.

Don had a wide circle of close friends with whom he loved to play poker, attend sporting events, play golf, or just talk. He was a long-time member of the Skagit Golf and Country Club. He was also an accomplished artist, avid gardener, and savvy investor.

Ardelle and Don shared a passion for world travel, visiting dozens of countries and all seven continents. During their first major trip together in 1955, they enjoyed bicycling through Europe. Don made all of their travel arrangements, was always eager to learn about each destination, and was fascinated by other cultures and the people he met.

Don is survived by his wife of 72 years, Ardelle; his daughter, Erin Walker (Jack); son, Kevin Leach (Cindy); five grandchildren, Trent (Kristin), Ashley and Parker Leach, Kathryn Deshaies (Aaron), and Krista Coleman (Johnny). He is also survived by six great grandchildren, Quincy, Keith, Evelyn, Kelly, Susan, and Everly; a sister-in-law, Beverly Leach; brother-in-law, Darrell Nelson; and seven nephews and one niece.

Don's life story is one of loyalty, strength, and integrity. He touched many lives with his wisdom, kindness, and sense of humor.

In honor of Don's service Burlington-Edison High School, a Memorial Scholarship has been established in his name.

Remembrances can be made to the Burlington-Edison Alumni Foundation - Don Leach Memorial Scholarship Fund at PO Box 350, Burlington, WA, 98233.

At Don and Ardelle's request, there will be no service.