January 12, 1950 - December 12, 2023
Farewell to ~
Reid, born on January 12, 1950, hung up his toolkit on December 12, 2023, at 73. He battled lung cancer, mesothelioma, from asbestos exposure at work like a champion, proving that even in the mechanic's garage, life can throw you some rusty bolts. A proud graduate of Nanaimo Vocational Training School, Reid's journey led him to the wild woods of North Vancouver Island, where he battled stubborn forestry machinery for an impressive 44 years as a heavy-duty mechanic, a fixture at Beaver Cove's dry land sort.
He finally threw in the wrench in 2015, much to the relief of every stubborn nut and bolt in the vicinity. His loving wife, Nadija, stood by his side for an impressive 52 years, enjoying all their time together at family gatherings, the rink, biking, hiking, kayaking, or cruising on the ocean. Reid was the father of Chantelle (Gary), Todd (Sue), and William (Megan). An avid angler, Reid had a way with steelhead and Chinook salmon while being an environmental warrior. His motto, "Only take what you need," practicing catch and release fishing over 45 years ago, before it was "a thing," will echo in the wind like the sound of a distant fishing reel while proving his ability to hook a fish, was as quick as his yellow 1970 Roadrunner, which he was known to race out in front of Port McNeill.
Known by his brothers in his hockey-loving family as "Cement Hands," Reid tackled life with the same tenacity. Survived by his brothers Terry (May), Brad, and Russ (Donna-Jean), and sisters Leslie (Dannie), Kay-Ellen (David), and Linda - Reid now joins his parents, Les and Betty, in the creator's garage. True to Reid's understated style, there will be no service or celebration of life, surprise, surprise. Instead, the immediate family will gather for an intimate gathering. The family suggests, if anyone is so inclined, to make donations in Reid's memory to the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre or the BC Cancer Society, ensuring his memory lives on in the fight against life's tough nuts. Reid believed in the magic of simple things, getting the job done, and having a happy life. He was a detail-oriented, task-focused, salt-of-the-earth man who taught us that life is too short not to check your oil regularly and too precious not to release the big ones. As a partner, sibling, father, and friend, you leave a beautiful, lasting imprint in our hearts, and we are forever grateful. You will be loved and remembered, and may your heavenly toolbox be fully stocked and meticulously organized.