Donald Reser Obituary

Donald Reser 80, passed away in Tucson, Arizona on October 27, 2009. Born in San Diego, California on July 9, 1929, he spent the last 25 years living happily in Tucson where he enjoyed hiking, nature, and the arts. He had a genuine love of history, especially that of Native American culture, and was an avid sports fan. Donald is survived, and will be greatly missed, by his daughter, Julie (Greg) Durkee; son, Craig Reser; grandson, Travis (Corrie) Durkee; great-grandson, Cash Durkee; informally "adopted" daughters, Joan Klar, Diane Struse and Kelly Barnhill; as well as extended family and many loving friends. Per his request, no formal services will be conducted; however, a celebration of Donald's life will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2009. For further details please contact Kelly Barnhill at [email protected].

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Published by Arizona Daily Star on Nov. 3, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald Reser

9 Entries

November 19, 2009

My very dear July,
My dear wonderful Kelly,

I don’t know how to start.
It is so difficult for me to accept that Donald will be not there, when I will come to Tucson, in less than 3 weeks.
I am still keeping his telephone number in my cell phone, I am still thinking of his wonderful and warm presence during any of my visit in Tucson.
I know he loved me.
I know he loved me as his own daughter, as his best friend, and I know he loved me more than I could offer him.
I also know, I brought him joy, youth, hope and unforgettable memories for both of us.
He was wonderful.
I loved him.
Many of our life memories are kept in some of the pictures you can see everywhere in his house.
Many signs of love you can find in our small but very creative presents: his presents are protecting me and my house, my presents are without his touch now….
I don’t know what to tell.
I believe he would like to take all those signs of love with him, to be surrounded and protected by our care and love….
Please you do what you think will be the best with all those memories…and send him on Saturday, my endless love too.

I will keep him in my heart forever.

Carmen Patrascu, Istanbul/Turkey

Dianna Samuels

November 18, 2009

I have known Donald for about 19 years. When he needed help at his shop I would come in with Kelly & work. I was horrible & slow & he kept bringing me back. I knew when I was there I would have a good time, learn something new & hear a few choice words. He always made me laugh! Donald, you were a great friend & we will miss you!

AHU BASER

November 17, 2009

My dear lovely sweet gentle Donald
Now that you have passed away
But you will be in my hearth & in my soul forever
I am not crying because I know that
After all that you have suffered
You have now found your peace of soul
Somewhere out there
I am sure one day we will meet again
But not yet, not yet...
Yours Ahu

Ahu BASER ( Izmir, TURKEY)

Steve Singkofer

November 4, 2009

Donald was one of the happiest, kindest people I knew. He was always happy to see everyone, and enjoyed many hikes and walks in Sabino Canyon with friends. He will most definitely be missed.

Kelly Barnhill

November 4, 2009

I don't even know what to say. Donald has been a constant in my life for the past 20 years. He was a huge influence on who I am today and what my life has become. He taught me picture framing, loyalty, integrity, patience and how to cuss. Like all familial relationships, we didn't always get along (hence the patience); but in the end he was always there with a hug and to tell me that he loved me. You never consider how much you'll miss someone until they're no longer there. Love always.

Rachel Loubeau

November 4, 2009

I am saddened by the news that Donald has passed away. He was such a sweet man and I will miss him dearly. When we would see each other at various hiking activities, he always asked me how I was doing (I have had a bunch of injuries) and took great interest in my cultural and ethnic background. He frequently asked how my grandmother was doing and I really appreciated his kind words. I always enjoyed walking and talking with him. To Donald's family, I send my heartfelt sympathy for your loss and to Donald, may you find some great hikes where you are now.

Teresa Villegas

November 3, 2009

Donald will always be part of my life. He was my only "family" while I was putting myself through college, living in Tucson. He was always there for me to give me encouraging words and a pat on the back, or a hug when I need it. He even gave me a job when I needed work. He gave me much more than I can explain at this time. We included him on our family's El Dia De Los Muertos ofrenda last night, and will continue to include him and keep him in our hearts and minds forever. His loving, kind, generous and cheerful spirit will always be a part of our family.
Teresa (Smith) Villegas

Deborah Moyer

November 3, 2009

To the family of Donald Reser:
it saddened me to see that your father had passed away. I hadn't seen Donald for awhile ,but he was a faithful hiker at all my SAHC potlucks. He had such knowledge about the stars and planets. Your father was a sweet and caring man.
He will be greatly missed!

Julie Durkee

November 3, 2009

Dad, I miss you. I wanted to talk to you yesterday but I couldn't. I hope that wherever you are, you are at peace.
I love you,
Julie

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