DOLORES KLOUDA LEACH

Cedar Rapids

Dolores Klouda Leach was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend. She passed away on Saturday, July 17, 2021, following complications from an ongoing illness at the age of 85.

She was born to George A. Klouda and Elsie (Roshar) Klouda on Sept. 3, 1935, in Ely, Iowa. An adept student, Dolores graduated with honors first from Lakeside Country School, then Marion High School in 1953. She proceeded to attain her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Coe College and shared her love of learning as an elementary school teacher in the Linn County area for many years.

On June 10, 1962, she was wed to Gary E. Leach in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dolores had many hobbies and talents including sewing, teaching and playing accordion, gardening, cooking, and solving nearly every crossword puzzle that crossed her path. Her love for her family could be clearly felt through her steadfast support and interest in each person's life as well as holding holiday gatherings at which she served delicious homemade meals.

Dolores was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary who passed away on Jan. 7, 2020; and her parents, George and Elsie.

She is survived by her children, Julie Leach and David (Brenda) Leach; grandchildren, John Leach, Tony (Taylor) Millang, Meghan (Leif) Zalewski and Geo (Chaelor) Hunter; great-grandchild, Ehren Zalewski; her sister, Elaine (Terry) Moore; brother-in-law, John Nicholson; sister-in-law, Nancy Ochiltree; nieces, Lisa (Brian) Gilliatt, Sara Kirkpatrick and Lena Leach (Nick); and nephew, Nick (Jessica) Ochiltree.

Always humble and helping others without expecting anything in return, Dolores was a light in the lives of many and her smile, laughter, and loving presence will be dearly missed.

A cremation will take place followed by a private graveside service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Cedar Rapids Community Health Free Clinic.