On July 7, 1940 in Piqua, OH; he was born to Ernest L. and Gracia (Earl) Reed. He married Janet McConnell on December 24, 1961.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Janet; son, Chip (Georgia) Reed of Tiffin; daughters, Rene’ (Ron) Spellman of Ashland; Lisa (Ronnie) Oakleaf of Tiffin; 7 grandchildren, Rebecca Spellman, Russel and Dendara Oakleaf, Nikole, Jamee, Abigail, and Kassidy Reed.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Randal Oakleaf in 2003.

Ernest was a member of First Presbyterian Church and a 1959 graduate of Tiffin Columbian High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in January 1960 and served 4 years aboard the USS Purdy (DD-734). He retired from National Machinery in 2000 after 36 ½ years. His hobbies included his classic cars, woodworking, traveling, cruises and spending time with his wife and family and getting together with friends. He was a member of the Seneca County Historical Society, National Machinery Quarter Century Club and the “Lunch Bunch” on Tuesdays.

A funeral service was held on Thursday, June 3, 2010 at First Presbyterian Church at 1:30 PM with Rev. Katie Treadway officiating. Burial followed in Greenlawn Cemetery with military honors conducted by the United Veterans Council.

Rest in peace, Lee.