Leach, Darwin Willard “Spike”
It is with love and gratitude that we announce the passing of Darwin Willard “Spike” Leach, surrounded by family at his home, on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in his 92nd year.
Spike was the loving father of Gary Leach (Lynn), Penny Rhodes (late Rick), Brian Leach (Marianne), and Kelly Mancari (Mike). Proud Papa of Falon, Rachel, Nicole, Haley, Amanda, Brennan, Krista, and Ashley, and cherished great-grandfather to 16 great-grandchildren and still growing! Dear brother of Donna Milks (Ron) and Lorna Blimke (late Darryl), and brother-in-law to Betty Leach. Spike will be lovingly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and so many dear friends. He is now reunited with his siblings Wilson (Mabel), Clayton, Bill (Doreen), Dalton (Betty), and Beryl Leach.
Born and raised in Chalk River, Spike built a life rooted in hard work and good humour. He worked with CP in Chapleau and later with the Ontario Northland Railway in North Bay, proudly earning his title as a railroader until retirement. Spike knew how to enjoy the good stuff, too. He loved curling, and the thrill of trying his luck at the casino. But his happiest memories were the simple, golden ones -fishing in Chapleau, time spent at the family camp in Chalk River, Thanksgiving weekends at Bissett’s Creek, and his road trips to visit his grandchildren, whom he adored. They will miss Papa’s spaghetti and his homemade salsa.
Spike had a way of making everyone feel like they belonged - always ready with a laugh, a smile, and a big hug. Truly, that was the “Spike effect.”
Family will receive friends at MARTYN FUNERAL HOME (464 Wyld St) on Sunday, January 25th from 6–8 p.m. and again at GATEWAY CHURCH (147 Marshall Park Ave E) on Monday, January 26th from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Funeral Service will follow at 12 p.m.
For those unable to attend in person, you may register to view the funeral service by livestream using the following link: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=cafda3fc-3e4c-47f8-aaf1-57c28497427a
A donation to the North Bay Regional Health Centre - Kidney Clinic would be gratefully acknowledged as expressions of sympathy. A special thank you to Jess and the PSWs and healthcare workers who looked after Spike this past year with such dignity and respect.
Online condolences may be left at www.martynfh.com.
Cheers to Spike - the man, the myth, the legend.
