Ralph Charles Reeder's Obituary
Ralph Charles Reeder passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully, on October 12, 2018 at the University of Maryland Medical Center - Shock Trauma at the age of 89 with his family at his side.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Margene V. Reeder of Annapolis, MD; two children, Charles M. Reeder (Vanessa) of Severna Park, MD, and Jane R. Padgett (Chris) of Ellicott City, MD, along with four grandchildren, Kevin and Caroline Padgett and Jacob and Aaron Reeder, of whom he was very proud.
Ralph was predeceased by his parents and his sister Corinne Reeder Knaus.
Ralph was born on July 12, 1929 in Longmont, CO to Sidney and Gladys Reeder. He graduated from Hastings College in Nebraska with undergraduate degrees in Sociology and Philosophy. He was drafted into the Army and spent 18 months in Paris, France. He then entered UC Berkeley where he earned a Master's Degree in Political Science.
He and Margene were married on November 24, 1957 at St. John's Presbyterian Church in Berkeley. After their move to Washington, DC in 1960, he spent the next 27 years working respectively for the USDA Research Center, Health Services and Mental Health Association, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and completed his career as the Director of Personnel for the Internal Revenue Service.
In 1987, Ralph retired and began a second career teaching Management and Organizational Development courses at the University of Maryland, University College. He also became heavily involved with several organizations, including the Caritas Society at St. John's College, the Heritage Harbour Health Group, Friends of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, and several committees with First Presbyterian Church in Annapolis, just to name a few.
He was friendly, dedicated and enjoyed making a difference.
Visitation with family will take place on Thursday, November 1st, 5 - 7 PM at Lasting Tributes, 814 Bestgate Road, Annapolis. A Service of Thanksgiving is scheduled for Saturday, November 3rd, 1 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 171 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, where a reception will follow after the service in the church Fellowship Hall.
All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ralph's life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Music Programs at either First Presbyterian Church in Annapolis or New York Avenue Presbyterian Church, 1313 New York Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20005.
What’s your fondest memory of Ralph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ralph?
Share a story where Ralph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ralph you’ll never forget.
How did Ralph make you smile?