Darold Edward Reynolds

Dec. 10, 1928 - Dec. 10, 2010

Darold Edward Reynolds, 82, passed away peacefully at home on his birthday, Friday, Dec. 10, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Venice, Calif., and spent his childhood in Southern California before enlisting in the Coast Guard in 1947. He served his country not only in the Coast Guard, but also as a paratrooper in the Army's 82nd Airborne Division and as a Communications Specialist in the Air Force. He was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars. He met his wife, Pilar, at Torrejon Air Base in Madrid, Spain in 1959. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in May 2010.

After retiring from his military service, Darold had a second career as a correctional officer at the California Medical Facility in Vacaville, Calif. He retired in 1991 and moved to Grants Pass, Ore., where he lived out the remainder of his life.

Darold was a patriot and a public servant all his life. He took great pride in his military career and peace officer experience. He served as a volunteer in the Josephine County Sheriff's Department until the age of 81.

He loved his dogs, with whom he had a special rapport, which enabled him to train them to flawless behavior. He was known as the "dog whisperer" by family, neighbors and friends. His gruff exterior did not fool those who knew him. He was well-liked and admired for his obvious devotion toward his family and pets and his endearing, teasing ways.

In addition to his wife, Pilar, he is survived by his son, David and his wife, of Nixa Mo.; daughter, Gloria Reynolds of Grants Pass, Ore.; daughter, Irene Reynolds-Donofrio and her husband Victor of Vacaville, Calif.; as well as four grandchildren.

He will be flown to Arlington National Cemetery and buried with honors. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Anne's Catholic Church, 1131 NE Tenth Street, Grants Pass, Ore., on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 12:30 p.m.