On the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2016, Eric J. Reed passed into the arms of the Lord.
At that moment, the world became a little less bright, a little less caring.
Eric was born on July 8, 1967, to Sandra (nee Lucas) Reed and Stanley Maynard Kibler in Painesville. He was adopted and cared for as a young boy by Sandra’s second husband, the late James Eugene Reed.
He was a graduate of Chardon High School, class of 1985.
Eric was a kind and loving soul who touched innumerable lives.
He was a man of many talents and interests. He was an avid outdoorsman who especially enjoyed trout fishing, a skill that he acquired from his late sponsor, Gary Murphy.
Eric will also be remembered as an outstanding artist. Through the years, he created treasured keepsakes for many.
Eric was a long-time active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. Through the fellowship, he cultivated countless friendships, including his best friend, Mike Savarise.
Like many others in our community, Eric struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction throughout most of his adult life. Being unable to overcome his struggles, in a moment of desperation, he took his own life.
Eric leaves behind his adoring wife, Desiree Winnen-Reed, whom he married on May 30, 2015. He also leaves behind a daughter, Kitrina Young, of Euclid, and two sons, Jesse A. Reed, of Ashtabula, and Cory Chapman, of Orwell.
He also will be sadly missed his loving mother, Sandra Reed, of Chardon; brother, Lucas Oliver Reed, of Chardon; nephew, Alexander Reed, of Chardon; and sweet friend and ever-loyal canine companion, Allie.
For those of you who are currently struggling with the disease of addiction and alcoholism, Eric’s family implores you to please seek help. Recovery is possible. “We shall be with you in the Fellowship of the Spirit, and you will surely meet some of us as you trudge the Road of Happy Destiny. May God bless you and keep you- until then.”
For those wishing to honor Eric’s memory, calling hours will be held Aug. 31, from 3-5 p.m. at Zaback-Ducro Funeral Home, 500 W. Prospect Road, Ashtabula.
A service will be held at 5 p.m. with food and fellowship immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family.
Cremation by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com and www.ducro.com.