It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Harris Aleksander Leach, who died at Thunder Bay Regional Hospital on Sunday, March 29, at the age of 48.
Harris was born and raised in Thunder Bay. He attended Oliver Road School, Algonquin School, PACI, and Confederation College. He dedicated 18 years of service to Canada Post, working as a letter carrier and in the plant, where he formed many lasting friendships. Known for his kindness and quiet sense of humour, Harris often brightened coworkers’ days by adding small drawings to pieces of mail he encountered while sorting.
Music was a central part of Harris’s life. From an early age, he took piano and guitar lessons, shared a love of music with his father, and attended live shows throughout his youth. He enjoyed working at St. James Stereo, where he connected with others over music, discovered new artists, and made thoughtful recommendations. He was also involved with LU Radio as a show host and music director. Playing in local bands and attending concerts brought him great joy, and the sense of community within music meant a great deal to him.
Harris had a love for life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed silly movies and humour, punk rock, record shopping, hot dogs and pickles, and keeping up with new bands. He was an avid sports fan, especially of hockey and baseball, and rarely missed a Chicago Cubs opening day. He valued friendship deeply and was known as a thoughtful, attentive listener.
Above all, Harris cherished his family. His daughter, Elliott, was the centre of his world and his greatest source of happiness. They shared a special bond, caring for plants and pets together and always looking out for one another. Making her laugh was one of his greatest joys, and her well-being was always his highest priority.
Harris will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his daughter, Elliott; her mother, Aimée (Jason); his parents, Brian and Paula; his aunts, Debbie Leach (Clarence Comeau), Maija Wilson (Glenn), and Donna Aho; his uncles, Ric Bodner, Matti and Harry Alatyppö; his cousins, Marnie, Scott, Jeff, Sarah, Monique, Jennifer, Darcy, Alex, Zack, Erik, and Terry; and many extended family members in the Maritimes and Finland.
He was predeceased by his grandparents, George and Verna Leach, Alvar and Veera Alatyppö, his brother, Christopher Leach, his aunt, Mary-Ellen Bodner and his cousin, Kevin Alatyppö.
A funeral service will be held at Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, April 7 at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Reverend Randy Boyd. Those unable to attend in person may join the celebration via livestream at www.sargentandson.com. Visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. with burial to take place at Riverside Cemetery.
In memory of Harris, you may wish to make a donation to a favourite charity, plant a tree to benefit our environment, or simply take a moment to relax and listen to some music in remembrance of him. Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
