John Leachman

John Leachman passed peacefully on March 6, 2026, at Scottish Rite Park in Des Moines at the age of 93. Born on December 23, 1932, in Des Moines to Robert C. and Margaret Leachman, he attended Roosevelt High School before studying business at the University of Iowa, where he joined the Sigma Nu fraternity and met his future wife and best friend, Prudence Meder Leachman. He left his studies to serve his country during the Korean War. Upon returning, he married Prudy, joined the family business, and began raising their four children: Sarah, Jack, Jennifer, and James.

John retired as CEO of Leachman Lumber in 2006 and later served as Chair Emeritus. A longstanding member of the Des Moines business community, he remained actively involved with the Des Moines/Embassy Clubs, the Des Moines Breakfast Club LTD., and the Northwest Lumber Association, now known as BLD Connection. He cherished his home in Clayton, Iowa, where he enjoyed boating on the Mississippi River, mushroom hunting, fishing, and supporting Iowa Hawkeye sports. Above all, he was happiest surrounded by family and friends. He had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel genuinely welcome, offering the warmest hugs and treating new acquaintances with the same affection as lifelong friends.

He is survived and lovingly remembered by his children, Sarah Schori, John (Jack) Leachman Jr. (Dawn Jorgensen), and Jennifer Leachman, all of Des Moines; his grandchildren, Tyler (Courtney) Schori, Allison (Derrick) Kuehner, Neal Jaycox, and Adam Jaycox; and his great-grandchildren, Grant Schori, Holden Schori, and Parker Kuehner. He was preceded in death by his parents, five siblings, his wife Prudy, his son-in-law Michael Schori, and his son James.