Lloyd W Reynolds

Lloyd "Red" Reynolds July 3, 1925December 22, 2014 Will be greatly missed by Valerie (Middlecamp), his wife of 66 years; his four daughters: Amy (Douglas Momeyer) Reynolds, Paula (Patrick) Cannon, Laurie (Michael) Dolan, and Sheila (Robert Chang) Reynolds; and nine grandchildren: Brendan, Peter, Brighid and Quinn Dolan, Joe and Jake Cannon, and Michael, Stephen, and Allison Chang. He leaves behind an extended family of nieces, nephews, in-laws and loving friends. Red made friends wherever he went, and was happiest hosting a party or spending time with his family who often referred to him as "the social director". He frequently celebrated his birthday with a pig roast around his backyard swimming pool, and loved to arrange trips to points near and far for family and friends. He and Val traveled extensively in their retirement, and particularly enjoyed Elderhostel trips to Europe and Australia. A veteran of WW II, Red served in Europe and was awarded a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. After his retirement, he enjoyed attending Army reunions, both here and abroad, and laughed to learn that he had taught his young daughters a very off-key version of his Army fighting song. He was grateful to have participated in the Honor Flight program in 2010. While attending college on the GI Bill, Red played football, and was a member of the UW-LaCrosse Cigar Bowl Championship team in 1951. His interest in sports and working with kids led him to a career in coaching, and he led the Nathan Hale Huskies to their first conference basketball championship in the mid-60s. He taught for the West Allis/West Milwaukee school district from 1954 until his retirement in 1985; first in physical education and later, social studies and American history. Education was always a high priority for Red, and he was especially proud that all of his children and grandchildren had earned college degrees (the last three grandchildren are working toward that goal now). He was a talented woodworker and could fix almost anything. He was generous with his time and talent and left behind many tangible, beautiful reminders of his love in the form of handmade toys, furniture and carvings. He enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting and music events. As his health ultimately prevented him from engaging in physical activity, Red maintained his status as a devoted armchair fan of the Packers and the Badgers; he rarely missed a game. Red endured many health challenges, but he faced his infirmities with courage and determination, rarely complaining to his family or caregivers. He always responded to the suggestion that he "Have a Good Day!" with, "I'm sure gonna try!" He certainly made every day good for the family he loved, and we will miss his kind and generous nature, his unfailing support, and his up-beat world view every day for the rest of our lives. A celebration of Red's life will be held on Saturday January 3, 2014 at Harwood Place, 8220 Harwood Ave, Wauwatosa. The family will receive visitors at 2 pm, with a service to begin at 3 and a light supper to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Stars and Stripes Honor Flight Wisconsin, or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.