Donald “Naido” Reyes

Donald “Naido” Reyes passed away at his home in Freedom on Saturday, June 2, 2012. He was 87.          

Mr. Reyes was born in Marysville, California to Agustin and Juana Reyes on October 22, 1924. He moved to Watsonville in 1934. He worked for National Ice Cold Storage, now John Ingalls Frozen Food, for over 30 years. He enjoyed dancing, restoring old cars, and talking about his experiences during WWII in the Army. Most of all he loved to spend time gardening. His greatest passions were his grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Mr. Reyes was very proud of his service to his country. He enlisted in the US Army in 1943 during WWII and served in the Asian Pacific War in the 2nd Engineers Special Brigade. He was discharged from the service in 1946 with the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two Bronze Stars and a Distinguished Unit Badge. He never lost the love of that time of his life. Mr. Reyes was a lifetime member to the VFW Post #1716 in Freedom.

Mr. Reyes is survived by his children, Agustin Reyes, Evie Ontiveros, and Kathy Willoughby; siblings, Carlos Reyes, Dan Reyes, Fred Reyes, Alex Reyes, Joe Reyes, Sarah Reyes, Helen Reyes and Lupe Barcelo; eight grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline Reyes in 2006; son, Ruben Reyes; brother, Rosendo Reyes in 2011 and his parents.       

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggest to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454 Alexandria, VA 22312 or to the American Heart Association PO Box 742030 Los Angeles, CA 90074-2030.

Visitation will be held at Mehl’s Colonial Chapel from 3-9 pm on Thursday, June 7th with the recitation of the Rosary at 7 p.m. Graveside services with military honors will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 8th at Valley Public Cemetery.

For the complete article see the 06-05-2012 issue.

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