Robert Alexander Reid

Described often as “the happiest person I have ever known,” Bob Reid, 89, passed away peacefully at home on Good Friday surrounded by family and the love of his life, Janette.  He also is survived by sons Mike (Janet), Dan (Kathy), Carl (Liz McCulloch) and daughter Laura (Bob) Durkin; 12 grandchildren Allison, Meredith, Jack, Leslie, Ryan, Katy, Charlie, Robby, Sarah, Jane, Patrick, and Maggie; and three nephews Dwight (Wendy), Paul (Nancy) and Stephen (Karen).  He was preceded in death by his parents William and Lucille; brother and sister-in-law Bill and Doris; and in-laws Edward and Jane Hickey.  Bob met Janette in 1954 and both graduated from the University of Michigan in 1956.  After serving in Korea, Bob returned to Janette in 1958 where they were married at St. Stephen’s church in East Grand Rapids.  Bob then launched his architectural firm that would remain in business for over 50 years and largely split between West Michigan and Vero Beach, Florida.  He loved his work and would often say that he “never worked a day in his life”.  Client agreements were always based on a discussion and a handshake. He enjoyed fishing at the family cabin on the White River and all over Florida.  He introduced his family to sailing at the Grand Rapids Yacht Club, where he also served as Commodore.  Bob was an active Rotarian for most of his life, played tennis, and traveled the world with Janette, taking annual trips abroad together for decades.  He was a dedicated crossword addict and known for his kindness, ethics, and humor.  In his later years, he still enjoyed games of pool with old and new friends.  Most of all, he was a family man and took great pride in the many successes of his children and grandchildren.  He touched many lives and will be dearly missed by all that knew him.  

Family and Friends are invited to a funeral mass at 10am Saturday, May 13, 2023, at St. Stephen Catholic Church in East Grand Rapids, followed by a celebration of Bob's life at the Grand Rapids Yacht Club at 11:30am.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to Vero Beach Rotary Charities Foundation PO Box 643224, Vero Beach, FL  32964.

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