Herman Edward Reich, 78, passed away at his home in Peachtree City, Ga. on April 21, 2014, as a result of a long battle with cancer. His family was by his side when he drifted off to heaven to join his wife of 50 years Mary Jean.
Born October 7, 1935 to Ruth and Herman Reich in Dayton, Ohio, the Reich family moved to California where Ed graduated from Christian Brothers High School, in Sacramento, Calif. 1954. Ed went on to join the Air Force in 1956 as a cadet pilot. After graduating from the cadet program and becoming a commissioned officer, Ed flew F-86 and F-104 fighters in the 55th Squadron of the 9th Air Wing in Europe. Following an auto accident in England he was medically discharged in 1959. Despite significant physical impairment following the accident, Ed graduated from Fresno State College with a degree in Accounting in 1962. He then went on to work as an accountant and administrator for various schools and the county of Fresno, Calif. He medically retires in 1982.
Ed inspired a legacy of Military Service within his family. His love of family, fun and travel were often seen around a game table where he shared his life stories, experiences and the love of history. His children and grandchildren cherish the memories instilled and carry on this love for games and family adventures today.
Living in Peachtree City, Ed especially enjoyed the friends and camaraderie and fun found in the Aces & 8’s Poker family. He also enjoyed the freedom of riding his golf cart while walking his best friend George.
Ed’s life was celebrated by close family and friends this past week.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to American Cancer Society. The family would like to reach out a special thank you to the Aces & 8’s family and Optum Palliative & Hospice Care for their continued care.