Byron Villager September 2024

norm in the Reed household. The siblings remember their childhood fondly despite the occasional chaos. They learned resilience and the value of family support, skills that have stayed with them into adulthood. “Having a big family is a bless- ing to this day,” says Don and all the Reed siblings agree. The siblings regularly get to - gether, enjoying the addition of new in-law siblings over the years. Happy occasions are more festive, and sad situa -

Reed Family 1998

Jeanette

Cheryl

his heart. John cherishes the memories of Christmases in the Reed home. “Christmas was always a big deal at our house, with lots of family and good times.” Transportation was challenging with a large family. The siblings remember all ten of them piling into their Dad’s Volkswagen Beetle for a visit to family in Kitchener, later upgrading to a more practical station wagon. Joanne had the special designation of being the youngest in the family. Having seven older brothers allowed her to enjoy having her own room, but she was often on the receiving end of amusing pranks by her brothers. “Guess what time it is? It’s torture time!” Joanne laughingly remembers this phrase being repeated to her. The family home on Byron Blvd. holds a special place in the hearts of the Reed children. John had the opportunity to buy the home back in 2014, becoming the keeper of family photo albums and keepsakes. He often hosts their Thursday “pint nights,” where the family gathers to enjoy time together. Bruce Reed joined the Byron Legion in 1963, with most of the boys following suit and remaining actively involved. Roger is currently the 2nd Vice and John is Head of Maintenance at the Byron Legion. You can often find a Reed or two at the Legion. Bruce and Olive had 17 grandchildren and many great- grandchildren. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 2004, surrounded by their loving family. Olive passed away in 2010, followed by Bruce in 2011. Sadly, two of the Reed girls, Jeanette and Cheryl, have also passed, but their memories live on. Homemade haircuts, broken windows, Friday night fights, hockey, hand-me-downs, pranks, and loud, boisterous meals were the

tions are mitigated by the caring and sharing of a big family. The bond between the Reeds is strong despite their differences. They cherish the security and sense of belonging that comes from be - ing part of a large, loving family, and their shared memories con - tinue to bind them together, creating a legacy of togetherness and mutual support that endures.

Reed Family 2024 Back row: Don,

Middle row: Robert, Wayne, John Front row: Roger, Joanne, Kelly Not pictured: Gary

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