Obituary of John Reid

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of John Donald Reid of Saint John, which occurred on Friday, February 3, 2012 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, after a seven year battle with dementia. Don faced his diagnosis and death as he lived his life, with dignity, determination, and a positive outlook. Born in Saint John on April 29, 1931, he was the only child of the late John Donald and Anne (Broderick) Reid. Don was a business man at heart, opening his own taxidermy fur business in the early 1950’s. He also owned other businesses in the city over the years. He was employed from 1954 to 1991 at Moosehead Breweries, working his way from sweeping floors up to district sales manager for New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Active in his community, Don was a member of the Thistle St. Andrew Curling Club, Branch #2 of the Royal Canadian Legion, the United Commercial Travelers, and Ducks Unlimited. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and in his spare time enjoyed fishing, hunting, and carpentry. He was also an avid reader. Don was the husband of the late Genevieve (Keleher) Reid, to whom he was married for 51 years. He was also predeceased by his infant daughter Patricia in 1959 and his son Donnie Jr. in 2003. He leaves behind his daughters Karen Burr and Katherine Reid, both of Saint John; his only three grandchildren, Chris (Samantha), Alisha, and Matthew Burr who loved "Papa" so very much; his special niece and care giver Cheryl Potter and her son Kyle Potter, Don’s special great nephew; a special cousin, Eileen Cusack, as well as several other cousins. Don is also survived by his devoted best friend, care giver and companion, Donna Cole. Don was a wise, loving, caring, and devoted man who will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Using his favorite phrase we say, "I love you, you’re beautiful". We will miss you Papa. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424), with visiting on Monday, February 6, 2012 from 7-9 PM. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated privately on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at Brenan’s Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances to Meals on Wheels, Romero House, St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, the Canadian Diabetes Association, the Canadian Cancer Society, or to any charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family. Please place online condolences and remembrances at www.BrenansFH.com.