A mutual friend, James Fesalbon informed me this past week of Karl's passage.   My heart goes out to his friends and family in this loss.   "Ours is not to know the hour of our passing."  Please forgive my tardy tribute.
As ever I'm  among the last to know, but I've not forgotten those days we had together in the opera chorus.  Several years my junior, Karl came to me for an audition piece to sing for George Fiore back when he still had to prove his chops.  What I offered him was "Youth and love" from Songs of Travel by Ralph Vaughan -Wiliams.  Of course he got the church gig!  
And I recall my shock when he walked out of an audition for Bernstein's  Candide at Eastside Musical Playhouse...having sung "Glitter and be gay", in the original key!   That was Karl!?  Though we both thoroughly impressed the hell out of production staff, I don't think either of us ended up on the cast list, for some strange reason? 
Although we were up for the same permanent position, we always remained kindly disposed to each other.  We assisted each other in myriads ways, having sung in many Seattle Opera productions over the years.  Most notably to my recall - Turandot, (with it's reeking set and backstage mishaps too lurid to relate here), Boris Godunov where his handling of a prop staff had me on my knees in rehearsal, sorely testing my gag reflex, etc., etc. etc.  
Although it's been over 20 years since I left that position, I always looked for him onstage when in the audience.  (Never a hard thing to do. with his scene stealing ways.)  But now, all is forgiven, I wish him safely in God's grand chorus. " There's gonna be some stiff competition for solos , Karl!"  I will miss him both in my heart and whenever "ala L'Opera".
TONY SOFGE

Karl, the good Lord blessed you with an amazing voice, a wonderful sense of humor and a talent for cooking as well. You touched so many lives. Someone will be blessed by beautiful guardian angel. Rest in peace. Lots of love and hugs Carol Boddy.

Karl was a very creative and joyful person. It was a pleasure to have known and sung with him. Blessings upon him and his family.

My deepest condolences to the family of Karl Reyes. I just heard about his passing. Karl was the most talented, the funniest, the most caring friend you could have ever wanted. My heart is broken, as I know all the people that have met Karl and had him in their lives. My friend, I wish you an easy transition and let your voice be heard up there in heaven. Thank you for all the memories. 🙏

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Karl Marx Hilo Reyes

7 mayo, 1974 – 2 noviembre, 2023

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Karl Marx Hilo Reyes

7 mayo, 1974 – 2 noviembre, 2023

Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home & Cemetery

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