John M. Leeman, 52, of Lawrence passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Nov. 22. He was born in Haverhill on Jan. 13, 1966 and graduated from Haverhill High School in 1984.
Employed by Rillahan & Associates since 2004, Leeman was fortunate to work in a job he enjoyed and to work for people he cared about. He had fond memories of Doreen and Brian and would often entertain us with stories of their adventures. Leeman was probably best known around town as the owner of Washington Street Café in Haverhill for eight years. It is here that many people got to know him and would come into the diner just to see him and share a cup of coffee.
Leeman spent most of his childhood summers at Salisbury Beach working at the center in the arcades and spending time with good friends on the beach. Many laughs and good times were had by all who crossed his path.
Leeman loved politics and enjoyed sharing his opinions on Facebook. He also loved gardening and took pleasure in seeing the fruits of his labor when his flowers bloomed. He opened his home every year for friends and family wanting to attend the Feast of the Three Saints. He was very passionate about his dogs Max and Titus, they were his children. He could keep everyone amused with his stories, and people were drawn to his charismatic nature.
He was a caring and wonderful man that has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts and will be missed by many.
Leeman is survived by his parents, Willard and Lucille Leeman of Haverhill, his partner of the last 14 years, Dave Fortune of Lawrence, four siblings, Theresa Caruso and husband Philip of Simpsonville, S.C., William Leeman and wife Susan of Haverhill, Debra Moschos and husband Luiz of Haverhill and Frances Motta and brother-in-law John Motta of Sandown, N.H. He is also survived by six nieces, Angela and husband Trey, Maria, Michelle, Jennifer, Sarah and Emily and one nephew Matthew and his wife Jackie, two great nephews Robert and James and one great niece Evelyn. He also leaves behind good friend Wayne Leocata of Lawrence.
Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours Tuesday, Nov. 27 from 4-7 p.m. at The Grondin-Carnevale Funeral Home, 129 Kenoza Ave., Haverhill, MA 01830.