Stephen Reed

Stephen Hartwell Reed died Jan. 26, 2012, at his home in Corvallis. He died in the same room in which he was born on May 11, 1920, to Edwin Thomas Reed and Katherine Hartwell Reed. He graduated from Corvallis High School in 1938, and attended Oregon State College until enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1941 to begin flight training. Ensign Reed earned his wings in August 1942, and was first assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Long Island for training in carrier operations. Before being assigned to combat in the South Pacific, Stephen married Mary J. Kollins on Valentine’s Day, 1943. Shortly after his wedding, Stephen joined the Air Group VC38 Dive Bomber Squadron, which was assigned to combat operations in the New Hebrides in the South Pacific. He flew numerous raids in his SBD-4 dive bomber. He also flew combat missions against Japanese forces from the island of Bougainville. He served nine months in the South Pacific. Stephen left the Navy in the fall of 1945. He returned to Oregon State College in January 1946 to complete his business degree. In 1946, Stephen and Mary purchased the soda fountain in the Memorial Union building on the OSC campus, and named it the O’Club. During the 13 years they operated the fountain, Steve and Mary thoroughly enjoyed their interactions with students and faculty. They became avid Beaver fans, and over the years attended hundreds of football and basketball games. In 1960, Stephen returned to Oregon State University as a student in elementary education. He received his teaching certificate, and taught in the Corvallis School District for 15 years. When he retired, Stephen enjoyed salmon fishing, OSU athletics and time at Triangle Lake. In 1991, Stephen’s wife, Mary, died after 48 years of marriage. In September 1992, Stephen married Lucille (Lucy) Rogers. They spent recent years enjoying time with family and friends both at their home on Southwest Brooklane Drive and at Triangle Lake, traveling in their motor home and on ocean cruises, and sharing happy hour with friends. Survivors include his wife, Lucy; sister, Alice Moore; daughters Phyllis Newkirk and husband Ken, Kathy Reed, and Stephanie Pepper March and husband, Lee; stepchildren Sharon Hayes, Liz Rondeau and husband, Bob, Cathy Hayes and husband, Rich, and Jim Rogers and wife, Jill; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Stephen was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; and his sister, Ethyl Aldwell. There will be a celebration of Steve’s life from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at 1730 S.W. Brooklane Drive, Corvallis. Memorial contributions can be made to Benton Hospice Service or one’s charity of choice.

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Stephen Reed

May 11, 1920 - January 26, 2012