Richard “Rick” E. Reeves, 85, passed away on November 28, 2019 at his home in Sylvan Grove, Kansas.
He was born on August 23, 1934 in Wichita, Kansas to Norman O. and Betty J. (LeMay) Reeves. Rick graduated from Dorrance High School with the class of 1952. After high school he joined the Air Force and got his start in the aviation industry. Rick was later employed by the FAA and worked at several airports during his 33 year career. He was united in marriage to Helen Ptacek on December 30, 1957 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wilson, KS. They were blessed with eight children.
Rick was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, and American Legion Post 334. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, basketball, coaching softball, boating, and visiting with people. He loved farming; especially raising livestock, but what he enjoyed the most was his family.
Rick is survived by his children Diane Reeves of El Dorado, Julie Sanborn and husband Jeff of Abilene, Alan Reeves and wife Becky of Wilson, Lori Reeves and partner Marilyn Garcia of Sylvan Grove, Kim Alexander and husband Wynn of Coldwater, Todd Reeves and wife Cherish of Scandia, Scott Reeves of Sylvan Grove, and Pam Johanek of Andover; thirty grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Betty; his wife, Helen; and brothers, Louis “Delbie” Reeves and Robbin Reeves.
Three umbrella terms come to mind: fidelity, passion, and selfless. Rick’s life was marked by fidelity: tohis faith, his family, his friends, his church and his community. Fidelity is that rare Old Testament virtue by which one sticks to one conviction, dreams, vocation, through thick and thin. He was devoted to Helen, faithfully; he loved his children, and his grand and great grandchildren, regularly tracking with pride, their endeavors and achievements and praying for them continuously. We are grateful for the values and lessons he has passed on.
Rick was a passionate man; about truth and right standards. He was most passionate about people. He was one of the most social beings ever met. He never knew a stranger. Within minutes of meeting someone new, he could be engaged and connected at a deep level of friendship. He loved to play cards, tell jokes, relate fascinating stories drawn from his life experiences. His favorite past time, his signature manner of communications was that of teasing. The gleam in his eyes, the chuckle in his voice revealed his delight in ribbing family and friends.
Finally, Rick was an extraordinary servant. He served the church with tireless generosity. Rick marked out a way of life that is a challenge to our generosity, faith, dedication, and compassion. To those who are sensitive to the needs of others, life offers countless opportunities to practice the good works.
Click HERE for service details.