Donald Ray Reed's Obituary
Big Rapids - Donald Ray Reed, 81, of Big Rapids, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2023, at Sheldon Meadows Assisted Living Center in Hudsonville, MI.
He was born May 28, 1941, in Howell MI, the son of Raymond and Ruth (Hardy) Reed. In his youth, Don moved with his family to Big Rapids, and he graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1959.
For nearly 30 years, Don owned and operated Moderne Beauty Salon in Big Rapids. He also assisted many customers as hairdresser at Altercare Nursing Center. Don was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church in Big Rapids.
In his younger years, he enjoyed racing his English sports cars, especially his Austin-Healey. An avid motorcyclist, Don was member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association, and served as the Big Rapids chapter director for 5 years. He was also a former member and past president of the Big Rapids Jaycees.
Don is survived by his wife of 21 years Cyndi; his children, Kelly (Thomas Baldwin) Reed of Jenison, Matthew (Tracy) Reed of Grand Haven, Debra Wierenga of CA, Greg Kailing of Paris, Christie (Lowell) Pratt of Big Rapids, Beth (Kerry) Blades of Cedar Springs, Dennis (Kate) Kailing of Rives Junction, Thomas (Tamara) Kailing of Morley, Joni (Mark) Ranum of Muskegon, Julie (Ben) Hartstock of Greenville, and Lyndi (Adam) Trowbridge of Holton; 26 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; his brothers, Tom and Jim Reed of CO, and Paul (Bridgette) Reed of Big Rapids; his first wife Donna Call; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his second wife Naomi and brother Richard Reed.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 3, 2023, at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, with Pastor Jeremy Wicks officiating. Burial will follow in the West Cemetery in Green Township. Don's family will greet friends from 4 - 7 p.m., Thursday, February 2 at the funeral home, and beginning at 10 a.m., Friday. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for Mecosta County Commission on Aging, 12954 80th Ave., Mecosta, MI 49332. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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