Sean Michael Reed
Share
Sean Michael Reed
Beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend
Sean was born in Topeka, KS, and grew up in Aurora, CO and Richardson, TX. From the moment he came into this world, he brought a sweetness and an irreplaceable joy to his family. He had an adventurous spirit and a mischievous glint in his eyes.
Sean was a brilliant athlete, and was also gifted intellectually. He sailed through his academics easily, rarely needing to study. After graduating from Richardson, Texas’ LV Berkner High School, he attended and graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. He then worked in the school lab while taking courses toward his Master’s degree. His knowledge on all subjects was expansive, and he could be counted on for answers to anything in nearly every field. If he didn’t know the correct answer, he sure could make up something wry or comical in its stead.
He loved sports—playing them, watching them, and listening to them on the Dallas Ticket Sports Radio. While we eventually brought him around to cheering for the KC Chiefs, his passion was for all Dallas teams – the Cowboys, Rangers, and Mavericks; and for his Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Sean was a kind man. He loved his family and friends, and would do absolutely anything to help them. He was a shoulder, an ear, the muscle. He remembered all important dates, and called or sent the most hilarious cards or texts. He was always ready to render aid to friends or strangers alike, from giving whatever money he had to offering rides or help changing a tire.
For a man so ready to help others, the irony that he could not get the help he needed is a painful, stark reminder that mental health care is inadequate.
He battled so hard, for so long. He overcame so much pain to be there for others until his body finally needed rest and peace. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, George “Poppo” Reintjes, Mary “Moms” McDonald Reintjes, his paternal grandparents, Grandpa Al Reed, Dorothy “Mema” Cossell Reed, his uncle Michael Reintjes, his aunt Vicki Thomas Reed, his cousin Molly Blume Duffy, and his two cherished dogs, Bailey and Sunny.
He leaves behind countless grieving friends and family all over the world, including his parents, David “Dave” & Mary “Katie” Reed, his sister, Jenny Reed, Elizabeth Kavitsky, and his niece, Dorothy Rose. She will never know her Uncle Sean, but we will be sure to tell her stories.
He was a witty, loving soul who left this world too soon. He will be forever missed.
Memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, July 13, 2020 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Lawrence.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Sean’s name to the Lawrence Humane Society or to https://www.facebook.com/donate/1624688367707979/?fundraiser_source=external_url or may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
Sean,
I miss you so much! Mom and I are just heart broken that you had to leave us so soon. I know you are already enjoying pain free peace and for that I am thankful. You will always be in our hearts and thoughts. Thank you for being my son! Love, Dad
Sean, this is the hardest goodbye that I’ve ever had to write. I hope that you are passing on our love to those who have come before you… Momses, Poppo, Molly, Mike… And that you are celebrating in their embrace right now. I hope that you know how much you are truly loved and what a giant hole you are leaving in our hearts and souls. I believe that we are destined to meet again, so until then, with all my love and heart, godspeed in your next journey, cousin.
What an amazing and wonderful tribute…beautifully written about someone very much loved.
Dave, Katie and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy.
Sean I’m finding it hard to describe my feelings over your death. What’s not hard to describe is my feelings for you, I love you very much, you were always kind to me. I can’t wait to see you again.
So very sorry to hear this.
Dave and Katie , you are loving parents. It is difficult to understand life and all the complications. God’s presence remains, however hard it is to discern. Our prayer is for understanding without comprehension, solace without consolation, love unequivocally. Our prayers of love for you, Uncle Bob and Aunt Carolyn
Carolyn and Bob Reintjes
Sean, you welcomed me into your family instantly and were always so kind to me. I am so sad Dorothy won’t grow up knowing you. I know one day we will all be together again and until then you are watching over us. I love and miss you.
Our deepest condolences to you Kate and Dave for your loss. We didn’t know Sean for very long, but he will be missed. He was a good neighbor. Very friendly, we were always greeted with a smile, even on a rough day. Our prayers are with you and your family, for strength and peace during this time.
Sean,
The last time I saw you was at your Mom and Dad’s home. I still remember the feel of your hug. You told me you loved me and I told you I loved you. I get to carry that with me until we meet again in heaven. Watch over your family from above and help us as we grieve.
Love,
Aunt Maureen
Katie and Dave,
Our hearts are aching for you. Our prayers are for your peace as you make this journey through grief knowing your beautiful son Sean is at peace with the Lord. We will continue to hold you close in prayer and hope that you feel the love and prayers.
Katie and Dave,
I am so sorry you have lost Sean, your beautiful son. His struggle is over, and he rests in God’s loving arms. It’s impossible to understand why such tragedy comes and why sometimes all our love and care is not enough. I will hold you and him in my heart and prayers.
Your cousin,
Lynda McDonnell
My beautiful son, my Sean, there are no words to describe the agony of losing you. I know your struggle is over, and peace has enveloped you. But, oh, I wish to see your face one more time, hug you in my arms, and tell you I love you.