Obituary of Ronald Walter Reed

December 25, 1942 – Red Deer, Alberta

March 7, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

Ron was born on December 25, 1942, and lived his life to the fullest until suffering a stroke and the gradual onset of Dementia in his 70’s. He passed away peacefully at Bethany Riverview on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at the age of 80 years. As we mourn his loss, we honour a man who meant so much to so many. We cope with our sadness by reflecting upon a life well lived.

Although Calgary was his home, he was proud of his Olds heritage, where his childhood memories played a large part in shaping his values and priorities. Winters were spent at the local arena playing hockey and as a “Rink rat” for the Olds Elks. Riding his horse with his dog, Buster following along was a familiar sight. His love of animals was apparent at a very young age and had a lasting effect on his life choices.

Ron was proud of his 27-year policing career which began in 1963 as a beat cop, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. The highlight of his career were his years as Staff Sergeant of the Support Section including the Canine Section, Mounted Patrol and Tactical Teams. On training days, he would often be with his officers whether it was working with the dogs, riding horses or scuba diving in Ghost Lake with his tac teams.

When Ron retired in 1988, it was obvious from the many speeches that he was very popular and well respected by those he worked with and for. His strength of character, work ethic, sharp wit and great sense of humor served him well.

In 1979, Ron applied his woodworking skills to his greatest challenge, the construction of their cabin in the mountains, “Reed’s Retreat” in Timber Ridge Invermere BC. Winters were spent skiing at Panorama and summers on the lake swimming, boating, and waterskiing. Friends and family often joined them, and they enjoyed good times with neighbours.

After his CPS retirement he continued to investigate fraud in Corporate Security for the Royal Bank for 10 years. Upon full retirement he and Darlene enjoyed 20 years as “snowbirds” in Yuma AZ, where they had so many amazing adventures and made long lasting friendships.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Darlene, his son Craig (Sandra), his grandson Evan and granddaughter Sydney, daughter Rhonda (Cam), grandson Barrett; along with treasured lifelong friends.

A celebration of life will be held at the Cuff and Billy Club (3730 Westwinds Drive N.E., Calgary, AB) on Friday April 21, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Ron Reed, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.