Daryl C. Reeder, 89, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2019 in Mission, Texas.
Daryl was born on September 8, 1930, in rural Trego County, Kansas to Cecil and Emma (Sitz) Reeder. During the Korean War, he served as a U.S. Navy corpsman for three years on a hospital ship. Daryl returned to work the family farm for more than 30 years while also working as a U.S. Postal Carrier.
He often said he carried on a lifelong love affair with his wife, Janice (Poague) Reeder who he married on April 15, 1953. Together they raised five children, instilling in them a strong work ethic and a love of music.
As a teenager, Daryl developed an enthusiastic interest in photography that stayed with him throughout his life. From war-torn Korea to his children's kindergarten programs, family get togethers, graduations, or marriages, he was always documenting life from behind the camera. His legendary slide shows were not to be missed.
Upon returning from Korea, Daryl devoted a lifetime of service to the VFW, including terms as a local and state post commander. He was an avid tournament league bowler, and had a passion for fishing and hunting.
He is survived by his wife Janice, his children, Mona, Mike, Jim, and Curtis, his sister, Shirley Erbert, and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, John, grandson, Sean, and granddaughter, Hannah.
Graveside funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, December 31, 2019 at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery of WaKeeney. Arrangements pending Schmitt Funeral Home of WaKeeney, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Daryl Reeder Memorial Fund. Donations to the fund may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.