James Earnest Leger

June 9, 1936 - January 22, 2021

Ret. Colonel James Earnest "Jim" Leger, age 84, of Cambridge, Ohio passed away in his sleep January 22, 2021. Jim enjoyed a 28-year career in the U.S. Air Force, where he flew refueling tankers, bombers and reconnaissance aircraft before he retired a commanding officer in 1984. He and wife Billie Von (Palmer), from Cambridge, built their retirement home here. Jim had a second career as a teacher, first as a substitute teacher at Buckeye Trail, then later as a high school teacher and Social Studies department chair at Meadowbrook High School until he retired in 2008. Jim enjoyed fishing and competing in bass fishing tournaments. At home, he enjoyed tinkering in his workshop, landscaping with his wife and watching football, golf and boxing. He also loved camping and boating with his family and hunting. As a boy, he loved building model airplanes. Jim was born in Evanston, Illinois in 1936. He attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. After graduation, he earned his commission as an officer. Jim completed three tours of duty during the Vietnam War, where he earned a Bronze Star Medal for saving local villagers and fellow servicemen. He also earned a Distinguished Flying Cross, Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and Meritorious Service Medal, among others. Jim is survived by his two daughters, Michelle Leger and Krystn Opava and granddaughters, Natalie and Anna Opava, and his sister, Rosemary (Leger) Leslie. A private viewing and service were held at Bundy-Law Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Association.