Bill passed away on his 78th birthday, 5 June 2024, while residing at the Rideau Veterans Residence, Perley Health Center, Ottawa. He was the eldest son of Ken and Mary Reed, both deceased, of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. He leaves to remember him his loving and devoted wife Karen, his daughter Beth (Adam Kusch), granddaughter Ella, his sister Carole (Bill Harris) and brother Bob (Leslie), sister-in-law Linda (late Peter Newton), as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, colleagues and friends.
Bill was born, raised and educated in Saskatchewan. While at university (B.A., ‘66, LL.B. ‘69) he enrolled and served in the RCN(R). After graduation and upon being called to the Bar, he entered into private practice in Prince Albert where he remained until he enrolled in the CF Regular Force as a legal officer in the Office of the Judge Advocate General (JAG).
His close to 35 year career as a military lawyer had taken him throughout Canada, Europe, the Balkans and the United States (including Puerto Rico and Hawaii) where he has performed duties as both prosecutor and defence counsel, sat as a trial judge (alone and with a full court), and provided a wide range of legal advice, services, training and counsel in personnel, administrative, criminal, disciplinary, international and operational legal matters at the strategic, operational/theatre and tactical levels.
A non-practicing member of his Law Society in retirement, he served a term on the Friends of the Canadian War Museum Board of Directors, was a member of several Committees, a volunteer interpreter, and a long-time volunteer in the Military History Research Center and Library at the Canadian War Museum. He was a de facto co-chair of the “JAG Alumni” (retired legal officers across Canada), a member of the Orleans Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion and Orleans United Church.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery, and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, ON) for a Visitation on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life in Beechwood’s Sacred Space at 10:00 a.m. with Interment to be held in the National Military Cemetery located at Beechwood Cemetery with Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Friends of the Canadian War Museum, Perley Health Center, or a charity of your choice would appreciate. Messages of condolence may be left at www.beechwoodottawa.ca
Digital Guestbook
Liz Lundy
Brenda Van Vliet and Mike Hewes
Dear Karen and family, we are so sorry to hear that Bill has passed away. While our paths have crossed only a few times since Brenda met your sister and family in Hemer and since meeting Bill in Lahr, we have kept you all in our thoughts. We are sad, but hope you will find solace in the memories you shared in your life together. Sending condolences and hugs.
Sylvain Fournier & Gertraud Herzog
Dear Karen, Gertraud and I were sad to hear of Bill’s death. I have only good memories of Bill and feel privileged to have worked for him. Our most sincere condolences to you and your family.
LCol(retd) Jack Poulter
Bill provided me with much guidance while being a Base Administration Officer. I have fond memories of working with this fine officer.
Linda Glover
My thoughts are with Karen, Beth, and the Family of Captain (N) (Ret'd) William A. (Bill) Reed. He was the first lawyer I worked for at the CFB Edmonton Legal Office from 1976 to 1978. He was an honorable, kind, and caring person. Mr. Richard Pucci was our court reporter and office manager. Bill always said that we three made a good team. That was 46 years ago, but Bill and Karen always kept in touch with us throughout the years. I will miss him.
Kim Carter
Karen, Beth and family I was so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. You have my deepest sympathy on the loss of such a wonderful person. Bill was a great boss and colleague. He was a man of integrity, loyalty, and devotion to duty - which he managed to combine with a kind heart and a sense of humour. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Logan Stewart
A very sad day.
I was a colleague during Bill's first few years in the JAG Branch. I always enjoyed working, sometimes on opposite sides of the case, with him.
We stayed in touch over the past 50 years and I was always glad to have Bill as my friend.
Karen, my sincere condolences to you and your family.
Deborah Campbell
Deepest sympathies and sending our thoughts and prayers. The most amazing of men, so kind and always giving his full attention and interest. I cherish the memories I have, from that first one when you impressed a group of (very excited) 10 year old girls with your trumpeting skills, to our last conversation where it still felt like old times. Thank you Mr Reed, I will miss you.
xo
Deb (the Debster), Stewart, Evelyn &Elsie
Edith Ruest
Bill will be missed by neighbours of the Perley’s apartment
He was a real gentleman and liked by all who knew hm.
Our sympathies to Karen and family.
Brett Crawford
Bill and I became friends in Grade 11 while attending PACI in Prince Albert.
We went to the U of S together, and were members of the infamous Intensely Vigorous College 9 (Bill played the trumpet). Other members were Mike Moen, Torchy David, Gord Sipko, the Burton Bros., and John Reed (no relation).
Bill was truly and uniquely a "Good Guy" who leaves this world a better place.
Karen, Beth and family - I send hugs of comfort, cherish all your memories. It was a pleasure to have worked for and with him, such a kind and considerate coworker to all. Every time I hear the phrase "get your ducks in a row" he comes to mind. I will certainly cherish my memories.