Our lives are such an amazing sequence of adventures. A small event that seems inconsequential, grows into a lifetime friendship. It was roughly 40 years ago at the Crystal Lake Fire Department when I was first introduced to Dan, by his twin brother Ronny. Several years later when I purchased "reloads" from Carrol Bullets I ran into Dan a second time. In 1990 as a "new boot" at the State Police Stafford Barracks some of the "old school" Troopers informed me that Dan Leach was also a Police Officer in Stafford Springs. It has been said that "three times is a charm", and boy did that prove to be truly correct. Years continually clicked by, then one evening at the Eastern Connecticut Sportsman's Club monthly meeting Dan arrived and applied to become a probationary member. Dan's outgoing personality and humor made him an immediate success with the members. Dan was voted in as a full time member within a relatively short period of time. A few years transpired, with Dan's friendly demeanor and positive attitude at the club, lead him to be voted in as club president. Dan did a fabulous job and maintained that position for approximately 13 years. Even after I had moved to Tennessee, Dan kept me up to date on all club activities. Any time I returned to Connecticut for a club function, Dan made sure we got together to "chew the fat". It really didn't matter what we did, possibly lunch, dinner or just sat around over a dish of vanilla ice cream with a little "43" or some scotch and water. It was always great to see Dan.
Tammy and Kyle, thank you so much for sharing your husband and dad with all of us. Dan's passing is an immense loss to his family, friends, club members and the entire community. We'll miss you tremendously.
Rest well my brother, we will all meet again in our eternal kingdom.
Steve Rozek - Hendersonville TN
