Dan Harvey Leake

Dan, a caring father, skilled builder, and beach-loving soul, passed away at the age of 68 in Richmond, Virginia, surrounded by his family.

Born and raised in Charlottesville, Virginia, he carried the heart and spirit of a true Wahoo. While deeply rooted in his hometown, he always dreamed of retiring to his favorite place—the Outer Banks of North Carolina. That dream became a reality, and he spent his final years there, walking the shorelines, collecting seashells, and finding peace by the ocean he loved.

He was a man of many passions—building homes, classic rock and the blues, cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, playing golf, and fishing on the beach. Known to many by the nickname “Sneak,” he had a sharp wit, a love for a good prank, and a warmth that made everyone feel at home.

Above all, he was a family man. His greatest pride and joy were his three children—Jennifer, Amanda, and Morgen. He was also excited to welcome Payton, Morgen’s fiancée, into the family, and looked forward to their future together.

He is survived by his children, his mother, Mary; his sisters Linda, Verona (Roger), and Karen; his brother Don (Suzie); and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends, including his best friends Matt and Jeani Montgomery. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Kim. He was preceded in death by his father, Ray, who passed down to him a love of building and craftsmanship.

As a builder, he found deep satisfaction in creating not just structures, but places for people to call home. He built many homes for family and close friends over the years, each one crafted with pride and care. Extending that pride beyond family, friends, and clients, he also dedicated his skills and knowledge of building to his community through years of service with Habitat for Humanity.

He also had a soft spot for four-legged family members, especially his children’s dogs. He proudly ran “Dan’s Dog Daycare,” always volunteering to watch his granddogs and treating them like royalty. They adored him, and the feeling was mutual.

In his final years, he found companionship in Leif—his loyal Australian Shepherd and constant sidekick. The two were truly inseparable, two peas in a pod, wandering the beaches and savoring the slow rhythm of life by the ocean.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, community, and craftsmanship. His spirit lives on in the homes he built, the lives he touched, and the family he cherished. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Dan’s life on Sunday, November 16, 2025, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. at 3080 Blandemar Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903. Please join us throughout the afternoon to share memories and celebrate Dan’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Habitat for Humanity in Dan Leake’s memory.