Leahey III, William F.

William F. Leahey III

August 24, 1942 – May 11, 2022

William Leahey, 79, of St. Joseph passed away suddenly on May 11, 2022, at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago.

On May 19, 2022, a private family service was held at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Benton Harbor followed by a burial in Riverview Cemetery, St. Joseph.

Dr. Leahey was born in Lowell, Mass., on Aug. 24, 1942.

He graduated with high honors from Tufts University in Medford, Mass. In 1968, he graduated from Tufts University School of Medicine. Bill graduated with an Alumni Award in biochemistry and anatomy. He was also awarded membership in the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society (the top 10 percent of medical schools). By 1972, he had completed an internship at Albany Medical Center, New York. He began a radiology residency at New York University Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital.

In 1969, his training was interrupted by a volunteer tour of duty with the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Khe Sanh, South Vietnam working as a triage physician (captain), living underground, treating wounded soldiers in limited space with limited equipment. After several months, Bill was transferred to Medical Headquarters Hospital in Quang Tri, Vietnam. He completed his last year of duty at Fort Mead, Maryland Military Hospital. He was honorably discharged as a major. Bill returned to his radiology residency.

In 1974, he joined Radiology Associates of Berrien County, practicing at Mercy-Memorial and Watervliet Hospitals and later at Lakeland Hospital. He was recruited for his neuro-vascular angiography skills. During his 44 years of practice, Bill served as chief of radiology, president of the Berrien County Medical Society and in several radiological societies.

Often times, Bill said, “He was so fortunate to have chosen a profession he truly enjoyed and loved.” His demeanor was always kind, respectful, patient and humble. He will always be remembered for his bright, friendly contagious smile.

Bill was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Jeanette Leahey; a daughter, Kristin Leahey of Boston; a son, John (Jordan) Leahey of Chicago; and two grandsons: William and Joseph Leahey.

Bill loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed classical music, history, art and baseball (Red Sox). His wonderful memory will live on with his family and friends.