I Glenn Reed

RICHFIELD, OH - Glenn Reed, age 80, died at home on July 2 after a long, courageous battle with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung condition that reduces one's ability to breath.

He fought to remain active, still able to move freely until mid 2011; then 24/7 oxygen became a necessity and his activities slowed greatly. His constant companion and helpmate was wife Joan, a registered nurse who cared for him diligently through various surgeries and the six-year challenge of reduced-breathing capacity. Married nearly 58 years, they faced his illness with courage and grace. Even with diminished physical strength. Glenn was articulate and his mind was still sharp.

Glenn also leaves his sister, Betty Megonigle (Dave Wade) of Kennerdell, Pa.; brother-in-law, Mike Kondos (Kathy) and extended family in Butler, Pa.; three children, Carolyn Reed (Al Hodge) of Ann Arbor, Mich., Mike (Patti) of Brunswick Hills, Tom (Jan Schutte) of Bath; plus five grandchildren, LeeAnn Gedeon (Dave) of Arlington, Va., Philip Dickson of Washington, D.C., Alyssa and Megan Hodge of Akron, Jason Faulkner (Crystal); and great-grandson J.J. His pet cat, Queenie, was a great comfort. He also leaves many friends from his 40+year career in the HD-truck industry; his deer-hunting buddies; Masonic Lodge #69 of Richfield and his original lodge in Pittsburgh, Pa. (inducted 1965). Glenn was proud to be a 32nd degree Mason. He enjoyed Richfield's rural qualities and friendships formed during his many years there.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irving G. Reed and Bernice Youngman Reed of Pittsburgh, Pa.; his in-laws, Michael and Bertha J. Kondos of Lyndora, Pa.; and several dear friends.

Glenn started working at age 14 as a farm hand and later at the local gas station, where he learned the basics of car care. Throughout his life he was known for his ability to fix anything with a motor, and he had a broad range of mechanical/building skills. These were used to build additions on the house and refurbish "the cottage" at Findley Lake, N.Y. where he and Joan spent countless hours enjoying the lakeside view. He also taught his sons how to renovate buildings and improve their homes. Many were helped by his willingness to fix a car or a malfunctioning appliance. He loved to drive, even driving trucks in retirement as a part-time job. Glenn enjoyed pie, yellowcake with white icing and "graveyard stew."

Glenn was able to live comfortably at home due to the many helpful people at Senior Independence Hospice Services. His family is deeply grateful for their frequent visits, the patient's equipment and supplies, their knowledge and compassion, especially in the transition stages from life to death. They also thank the many friends who provided cards, phone calls, food and support during his confinement.

Calling hours will be held at Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., Fairlawn, OH 44333 from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 5. A funeral will be held on Friday, July 6 at 11 A.M. at the Richfield United Church of Christ with Pastor Jay Carroll officiating. Burial will follow at (West) Richfield Cemetery on Broadview Rd., just north of Rte. 303. Memorials can be made in Glenn's name to Richfield UCC, ATTN: Capital Fund, 4340 W. Streetsboro Rd., Richfield, OH 44286; or Senior Independence Hospice Services, 1815 West Market St., Akron, OH 44313. May he rest in peace.

(Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)