Charles (Chick) H. Reese, 92, of Scranton, passed peacefully on April 16th, Easter morning, surrounded by his family at Riverside Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He was the widower of Lois J. Reese, who died June 15, 2015. The couple had been married for sixty years.
Chick lovingly recounted meeting Lois (his girl), for the first time. She and her sister sang at a dance at the Keyser Valley Community Center, of which he was the Social Director. He told everyone that for him, it was love at first sight.
Born September 12, 1924, in Scranton, Chick was the youngest child of the late Benjamin and Cora Eynon Reese. He was very proud of his Welsh heritage.
In his younger years, Chick had many happy memories spent camping with his family and playing baseball. In addition, he enjoyed carpentry in his basement. He diligently worked on his beautiful, handmade Christmas village so that it looked impeccable every December, his and Lois’s most favorite time of year. Chick also enjoyed countless vacations, specifically his cruise to Bermuda.
Chick served in World War II and was discharged as a Corporal in the Army Air Force Unit. Because of his humility and belief that is was his responsibility to serve his country, Chick refused to talk about those years. Of the numerous awards he was granted, we feel his favorite would have been the Good Conduct Medal because manners were a priority of his and he was always such a gentleman.
Chick will be greatly missed by his family who has provided love and support throughout his wife’s long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease and consequently Chick’s health issues. His family would like to thank the countless nursing staff at Riverside, specifically his aides, Heather and Tracy. They have become family. Also, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the receptionists, Ruth, Mark, and Melissa for their kindness. Lastly, the comfort provided by Marty McGurrin of Hospice of the Sacred Heart has been a Godsend. They have all truly been angels on earth during this long, difficult journey.
Chick is survived by his daughter, Maureen (Hank, whom Chick always considered a son) of Clarks Summit; Richard (Sharon) of Clarks Summit; and Kim (Jeffrey) Gensiejewski of Victor, NY; grandchildren, Meghan and her fiancé, Kyle, Amanda (Alexander) Monelli, and Reagan and Ben Gensiejewski; many nieces and nephews.
Chick was also preceded in death by his brother, Benjamin and sister, Martha.
As per Chick’s wishes, a private graveside service was held Thursday with Pastor Earl O. Cassel officiating.
Arrangements were conducted by Vanston and James Funeral Home, Scranton.
To share a memory or to leave your condolences for the family please visit www.vanstonandjames.com.
The Bugno Family
Maureen, Hank, and Meghan,
We are so sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Reese. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Paula, Ed, Jessica, and Jason
Paul Church
Uncle Chick, tears cloud my thoughts as I remember the love and good times I shared with you and Aunt Lois, amazing how love can fade into a memory. I had so many good times at your house, you were more like a big brother and sister than Aunt and Uncle. Now that your gone there is a big void in my life that will never fill in. Thanks for everything, even the nickname “George”. My mother would be sad to know of your passing. You were lucky to have Hank and Maureen’s support during you failing years. You were loved!
patti licata
dearest Maureen and hank and family,
we were so very sorry to hear about chick. so many times lenny meant to stop up and see your dad. regretfully we never made it up to visit. he and your mom are always in our prayers. I am sure they are together with ang and sam again and looking down on us and smiling. they are at peace now. our love and regards to all.
respectfully, patti and lenny licata and family
MaryEllen Ward Gibbs
Maureen, I’m so sorry to hear about your Dad and did not know about your Mom! Chick and Lois were awesome. My dad passed on the 9th and his was from the same funeral home yesterday, also. So sorry!