William Robert Reed

Bill was born to Dr. George Ernest Reed of Edmonton, Alberta and Grace (Breadner) Reed of Temple Hill Ontario, on June 26, 1933. Bill grew up in Verdun Montreal, and later, as a young adult, moved to Toronto Ontario. Bill became very involved in the Student Christian Movement where many cherished and life-long friendships (Keith Dixon) were created. During this time Bill became very committed to understanding and addressing social justice issues. Bill also had a love of science which led him to study Mechanical and Industrial Technology at Ryerson, graduating in1958. Again, lifelong friendships were made while at school (Ron and Nancy Schaubel). It was through church and the SCM, that Grace and Bill met. They were married in 1962, and in 1966 moved to Dundas. The community at St. James Church Dundas quickly became a circle of close friends. Of special note is the friendship between Bob McIvor and Bill. Bill and Bob had many an adventure, often with their wives looking on in astonishment and dismay. Bill and Bob along with Grace and Ann shared many road trips out west, family Christmas Eve dinners followed by Midnight mass at St. James, as well as countless trips to cottage country. Bill continued to volunteer and support social justice action well into his senior years.

Bill is predeceased by his wife Grace. They had been married for 59 years -separated for 9 months following Grace’s passing; now, once again they are reunited. Bill will be missed by his children, Mark (Brenda Huff) and Miriam (Jed Gardner), his grandchildren -Grace, James, Sofia, Tookoome and Tanu, Barbara Bolton (sister-in-law), and his many nieces and nephews- all of whom he loved to visit and socialize with. He cherished the support of the community at St. Joseph’s Estates where there was always a friendly neighbour to chat with and a friendly “pooch” to pet.

Bill had a way of making people laugh, particularly as he aged, he found his singing voice which would send his grandchildren into fits of hysterical giggles, and in his last days, his singing and humming filled the halls and garden at St. Peter’s.

Bill’s life was one filled with a quiet gratitude and embrace for adventure. Bill, as did his family, felt gratitude for the excellent care provided throughout the years by both his family physician Dr. Coren, and in his final days, the compassionate care received from all the staff at St. Peter’s. Plans for a memorial service will be arranged sometime in July through St. James.

Online condolences may be made at www.marlattfhdundas.com