Donald Eugene Leach passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, at the age of 87 in Kansas City, Missouri at KC Hospice House. Born in the family home on October 12, 1938, in Sweet Springs, Missouri, he was a cherished member of the community known for his dedication to family, nature, and service.
Donald’s early education occurred at Sweet Springs R-7 Elementary and High School, after which he pursued higher studies at Central Missouri State University and the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Pharmacy. His career was diverse and impactful, beginning with simple jobs like milk delivery and paper routes, and evolving into significant roles such as a high school science teacher, a Missouri Conservation Department agent, and a registered pharmacist. He owned and operated Whitsitt Drug Store and later worked as a pharmacist at Research Hospital. His professional dedication was recognized through his leadership as president of both the West Central Pharmaceutical Association and the Missouri Pharmaceutical Association, and he was honored with the prestigious Bowl of Hygia Award for community service.
A veteran of the Army National Guard, Donald exemplified discipline and commitment in both his military and civilian life. His deep love for the outdoors was evident in his hobbies, which included serving as Cub Scout Master, Boy Scout Master, and his involvement with the Sweet Springs Chamber of Commerce, Fair Board, and Park Board. He was also a Winter Texan for 24 years at Trophy Gardens in Alamo where he enjoyed playing cards, shuffleboard, bean bags, dominoes and belonged to the bike club. Don traveled to all 50 states and considered a 60 day excursion to Alaska to be his favorite trip. Don enjoyed reading, fishing, birding, gardening, canoeing and being in, on or around the water.
Donald was a devout member of Wesley United Methodist Church in Sweet Springs and Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church in Laurie where he served on various committees. His faith and community involvement were pillars of his life.
He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Marilyn (Whitsitt) Leach; daughter Lori (John) Carrender; son Doug (Autumn) Leach; grandchildren Bret (Tyler Hedges) Leach, Rebecca (Alex Koontz) Carrender, Blake Carrender, Harper (Drew) Cook, and Collin Leach; and nephew Phil (Raylene) Ballenger. He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Katherine (Vogt) Leach; sister Mary (Leach) Ballenger; and nephews David and John Ballenger.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 9:30 AM followed by the funeral service at 11 AM at Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church, 305 North Main Street, Laurie, MO. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Donald’s memory to KC Hospice House, the American Heart Association, or Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church. His legacy of love, service, and community dedication will be remembered by all who knew him.