James William Leech

James William Leech passed away in his home after a long illness on July 31, 2023, with his wife Donna Leech (Hester) by his side. Jim recently celebrated his 90th birthday with family on May 25, and his 66th wedding anniversary on July 6. A lifelong resident of Torrance, Jim graduated from Torrance High School in 1951 and was a naval Korean War Veteran.

He worked 35 years as an instrument repairman for Unocal 76 in Wilmington before retiring at age 62. Jim was a traveling man, to be sure. And documenting his travels with pictures and journals was common. He was an avid camper who spent at least one week every summer tent camping in Yosemite with his family. He also traveled abroad, having visited Europe and Asia multiple times.

Jim and Donna also enjoyed the cruise life and cherished their memories of places and people they met along the way. His greatest love was being on the road, exploring the Western United States in his camper van with his wife or his beloved dog, Oggie. After retiring, Jim volunteered on the Lane Victory ship in San Pedro for many years. He is survived by his wife and all four of his children: Scott, Mark, Gregg and Paige; sister Joan Paour; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.