James (Jim) H. Leach, III, of Waterford, MI; age 75 passed away peacefully, at his home on 10/6/25. Son of the late James and June Leach, Jim is survived by his wife Patricia (Patti) of 46 years, his daughter’s; Tami Leach and Lori Leach and his son’s; Randy Dunbar and Michael (Kim) Dunbar.  3 Grandchildren; Ashly (Mark) Elliott, Cody (Audrey) Dunbar and Tyler Dunbar.   4 Great Grandchildren; Caleb Elliott, Gemma Elliott, Parker Dunbar and Ewan Dunbar. Fondly referred to as “Papa Jim” by all of his grandchildren.

Jim was self employed. He owned and operated Jim’s Sales and Service in Pontiac for over 47 years. A body shop and tractor repair shop. Jim bought and restored a 1986 Red Corvette for his wife Patti and a 1978 Red El Camino for himself which was his pride and joy.

Jim was well loved by many people with long lasting relationships from high school and through the years. Patti often heard stories about Brad Maxom, Dennis Galbraith and close friends, Mike Bowen, Rich Leitner, Ron Lee, Doug Bowman, Butch Graves and many more. If anyone had a problem with anything they’d call Jim. He would tell them how to fix it and if they couldn’t, he would have them bring it to the shop. Jim was very talented with anything he touched, especially if it had a motor. If Jim couldn’t figure how to fix something he often would go to sleep at night and dream about the project then wake up with an answer.

Jim started working on large equipment with his dear friend Bill McDonald. Later, he started restoring farm tractors where he met “Tractor Dave” Lowe. They were a pair and formed a very special friendship. They loved to work on FARMALL Cubs. The last tractor Jim worked on was the most special, done with grandson Cody Dunbar. It was a Red FARMALL Cub. Cody owns and is very proud of the tractor he and his Papa built together.

In addition to his business, Jim helped many of his neighbors with whatever he could. He was always ready to lend a hand to whoever needed it. He was easily recognized by his Red Pickup truck and always shared a wave as he passed by. In the winter, Jim could be found clearing snow from his driveway in his Kubota, red FARMALL Cub or yellow Cub Cadet. After clearing his driveway, Jim traveled the neighborhood clearing his neighbors driveways and mailboxes before going home.

A big memorial celebration of Jim’s life is being planned for the summer of 2026.

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