James Douglas Reeb

James Douglas Reeb

The family of Rev. Jim Reeb of Wetaskiwin, Alberta, is deeply saddened to announce his passing on Dec. 22, 2022 at Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre at the age of 79. Born Dec. 12, 1943 to Lloyd and Florence Reeb (nee Fairbairn) of Maidstone, Ontario, Jim grew up alongside Pike Creek with a great appreciation for his family, the outdoors and the value of hard work. 

Nicknamed “The Blonde Brain” in the 1961 Essex High School Yearbook, Jim worked as a milkman and at Ford Motor Co. to pay his way through University of Windsor. He graduated in 1965, the same year he married the love of his life, Donna (nee Stratford), who stole his heart the summer after high school when they attended Gesstwood United Church Camp. Together, Jim and Donna lovingly raised four children: Scott (Leanne), Troy (Maureen), Kendra and Kristen; in a life journey that took them across the country, making many friends and memories along the way.

Always active in the church, Jim was working for the federal government when he was called to serve God, graduating from Queen’s Theological College, Kingston, in 1979 and being ordained into the United Church of Canada. Supported by Donna and her musical gifts in the choir, Jim’s ministry spanned many years in Underwood (Bruce County) and Leamington, Ontario, as well as Westlock and Wetaskiwin, Alberta, where he retired in 2005.

A passionate advocate for the less fortunate, for mental health-care, and for our veterans, Jim served in many community roles, including as Padre of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 86 Wetaskiwin. He loved Canadian history, the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, the works of Stephen Leacock and W.O. Mitchell, and researching the family tree. More than anything else, he loved Donna, and they could be seen most days, winter or summer, walking hand-in-hand at By-the-Lake Park.

Rev. Reeb is survived by his wife and children, brothers Robert (Connie) and William (Victoria), brother-in-law William (Erna), grandchildren James, Rene, Ben, Marcus, Audrey, Samuel, Chloee, Ethan and Emma, plus many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 4 at First United Church, Wetaskiwin, with Rev. Ruth Lumax officiating. Visitation at 12 noon, service at 1 p.m., with interment to follow.

The family would like to thank the staff at Centennial Centre for Mental Health, Ponoka, for their care and support.

Donations to First United Church and the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada would be appreciated.

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