Fern Louise Reich

Fern Louise Reich, 89, of Greeley, Colorado, passed away on May 10, 2026. Born September 18, 1936, in Fort Morgan, Colorado, Fern was the daughter of Joseph and Ruth (Gearhart) McIlvanie and one of six children. She carried through life a steady devotion to those around her, remembered for the caring, loving way she showed up for family, friends, and community alike.

On August 12, 1955, she married Alvin Ray Reich in Fort Morgan, Colorado. Their marriage of 53 and a half years stood as a testament to enduring commitment and shared purpose. Together they were blessed with five children: Jon, Karren, Tomas, Sharon, and Louis; Tomas and Karren are twins.

Fern dedicated 25 years to work at the Weld County Hospital, now known as the Banner North Colorado Medical Center, where she loved working alongside her husband, Alvin Reich. Her years there reflected a quiet strength and a sincere regard for the people she served and worked with each day.

A woman of deep devotion to others, Fern found meaning in community and in the simple, enduring rituals of time spent together. She loved crocheting, baking cakes for special occasions, camping, and sharing laughter in games of bingo and bunco with those she loved. For over 50 years, she cherished her time at the Rebekahs Lodge. She also gave generously of her time through RSVP, embroidering dish towels, and enjoyed working within the school district of Greeley and Evans. In addition, she volunteered at the Adult Activity Center. Above all, Fern treasured being with family, offering love in ways both quiet and constant.

Fern is survived by her children Jon (Julia) Reich, Karren Forbes, Sharon (Mike) Miller, and Louis Reich; 12 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; and 3 great- great- grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Ruth McIlvanie; her husband, Alvin Reich; her son, Tomas Reich; her sister, Annabell; and her brothers, Orville, Ivan, Everett, and Marvin; She was also preceded in death by Alvin’s parents, Suede Adam and Madeline Reich, and his three sisters.