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BORN
1960
DIED
2015
Mark Reeds Obituary
Reeds had been fighting cancer for more than a year, and the news came as a blow to a team already dealing with general manager Bryan Murray's cancer diagnosis.
Owner Eugene Melnyk lauded Reeds' "charismatic fighting spirit ... right until the end." Murray said the team lost a "very important member ... of our Senator family."
Reeds had been an assistant in Ottawa since 2011 and before that coached the Owen Sound Attack to an Ontario Hockey League title. He was a fifth-round draft pick of St. Louis in 1979 and played 365 NHL games for the Blues and Hartford Whalers.
"Mark Reeds was the embodiment of commitment to our game," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. "Mark devoted 35 years to 10 different stops in six different leagues, and the NHL shares the sorrow of all who were touched by his selflessness and dedication."
The Senators open the postseason Wednesday night against Montreal, a game they weren't expected to be playing until a late-season surge resulted in a wild-card spot.
"We're just trying to win," said Kyle Turris. "That's what he (Reeds) wanted. Just to give it our all, to keep winning, to get into the playoffs and just keep doing what we can to win and that's what we're going to try and do for him."
Reeds was remembered for his humor, passion for the game and ability to communicate with players.
"I can personally say I'm a better hockey player because of him," Senators captain Erik Karlsson. "I have a lot of respect for him. He was a great coach and an even better guy and a friend. He was always happy and he's helped shape this team into what it is."
Senators coach Dave Cameron fought back tears as he spoke of Reeds and what he brought to the team.
"When Mark got sick you had a heavy heart — now it's broke," he said. "Just a terrific father, dad, husband. Very close family. Big part of our success."
Cameron praised Reeds for his "bright hockey mind."
"He noticed things in a game that most people wouldn't if they watched the game 10 times, they wouldn't notice about stick placement, positioning, just details," he said. "He was a perfectionist. He loved the game. We had a lot of laughs in that back room watching video and pre-scouting. ... A lot of times we just pulled the chairs back and it wasn't hockey, it was life."
Murray, who revealed in November he has Stage 4 colon cancer, said Reeds met with the team about 10 days ago and told them to keep winning.
Murray is confident the players will rise to the moment.
"I'm hoping that they handle it as Mark handled it," Murray said. "All he said his last visit was 'Let's win it all.' So we're going to use that hopefully in a positive manner."
Added defenseman said Marc Methot: "It's not easy and this morning wasn't fun. We've just got to rally behind that now and focus on the playoffs and do it for Reeder."
Reeds, who was born in Toronto, is survived by his wife, Mary, and children Kyle and Kelsey.
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
83 Entries
Maureen Christiaens
June 2, 2017
I knew Mark for a moment in time but he is etched in the fabric of my life. The news of his passing saddens me. The world seems a little less vibrant without his kind, gentle soul in it.
Abby F
February 11, 2017
I am so sorry for the loss of Mark. I know you, Mary that your love, strength and comfort to him brought him peace at the end. I will always keep you and your children in my prayers. You are a strong woman. I will always be there for you.
Abby
How you can show support
Susie Jackson
September 28, 2015
To the Family of Mark Reeds,
You have my deepest sympathy. May the God of all comfort supply you with comfort and strength to endure the days ahead.
Jon Franchino
June 25, 2015
Stunned and saddened to hear of Mark's death. I knew him during his playing days in Salt Lake City, where I was a member of the sports media. My deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
April 25, 2015
Are heats go out to all the Reeds Family Mary Kyle and Kelsey and all the Reeds family . God Bless .
Cathy Faulds
April 25, 2015
We are so sorry that we can not be present to celebrate Mark's life today with you. He was loved, respected and cherished by all of us. In the end, he leaves a legacy of family and accomplishments to be proud of. God Bless. Love Cathy, Tom, Kelly and Jenn Faulds
Jack Bowman
April 24, 2015
Mark was so much fun to watch with the Salt Lake Golden Eagles in the early 80's. I am saddened to hear of his death. My thoughts are with his family and those who knew him well.
Rich & Terri LoRusso
April 24, 2015
Mary, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
Mark's legacy reads like someone in their 80's - he has touched so many in such a positive manner in his short life. Mark lead by example and everyone he touched will carry his on passion.
Eric, Annette, Alec, Brianna, and Dominic Murano
April 24, 2015
Our deepest condolences to the entire Reeds family at this difficult time. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Eric, Annette, Alec, Brianna and Dominic Murano
karen diehl
April 24, 2015
when I think of Mark, I smile and laugh-for a tough hockey player he had a marshmellow heart-funny, kind athletic-witty with a quick smile and laugh;my sympathy to all-he will be missed
Brittney Byrth
April 23, 2015
To Kyle and Kelsey,
I'm sorry for your loss. I can tell you that you're father and mother raised you to be strong individuals. Kelsey you were there when I loss my mother in 2014 and remained strong for me. I remember in the library when you cried with me. You were with me every step of the way. Now it's time for me to be here in the same capacity.
To Kyle,
Just as your father was a strong man for the family. You also remain strong for the family. Keep your head up for your father has equipped you with all that you need.
To Mrs Mary, I applaude you for the wonderful and knowledgeable children that you and Mr. Mark brought into this world and have never seen such a supportive wife by her husband's side like you were for your husband. God is well please. You've shown me how to be by your husband at such a difficult time and stay strong. You have also showed me how to be the backbone for him as well as the rest of the family.
I love you all with the love of Christ & Please know that God is your comforter and will never leave you nor forsake you.
Pam Shebest
April 23, 2015
While Mark was coaching the Kalamazoo Wings, he was always one of my favorite interviews for the Gazette. He had a sense of humor, took the blame for losses and deflected the praise to the players in wins. He was a patient man who loved his family, was a really good tennis player and will always rank among the top coaches ever with the K-Wings. So many people in Kalamazoo have shared special remembrances of Mark that his memory will live on. My thoughts and prayers are with the Reeds family.
The Carter Family
April 22, 2015
Loving family man, great hockey player/coach, extraordinary human being only begin to describe Mark Reed. Hoping family members, colleagues, and friends can find comfort in knowing that Mark is indeed precious in the eyes of both God and man.
April 22, 2015
Our deepest & sincerest condolences to family / friends / team-mates at this sad time. One of the nicest persons I ever came across on/off the ice. Mark will truly be missed by many but his kind / caring / passion will live on forever. Always remember the great times. Sincerely the Ontario Hockey League Alumni #RIP good sir.
Colonial Cup Champions
Eric Bechtol
April 22, 2015
Mary, Kyle, Kelsey & Reeds Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My family sends their prayers & condolences! Mark was a great man that made me a better equipment manager, father, husband & person. Whenever you win a championship together, you share a special bond. I've made many decisions in my life by referring back to advice that he has given me. If I can't physically make it to St. Louis to participate in celebrating his life, please know that I am there in spirit. All my Best! Eric Bechtol
Dominique Charles
April 21, 2015
Mary, Kyle and Kelsey my deepest sympathies. I am saddened and shocked to hear of Mark's passing. He was such a wonderful person: kind, loving, fun, and generous with a great sense of humor. Even though we haven't seen each other for many years, I will always remember fondly and cherish the times we spent together back in the day. Blues hockey games - Lucius Boomers - Barbecues - Parties just to name a few. He will most certainly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Mary Rice Carrow
April 20, 2015
Mary, Kelsey and Kyle I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences and prayers are with you at this time. You will continue to have in your heart and soul the loving memories of Mark.
Your friend, Mary
April 20, 2015
Hi Kelsey. I am so sorry to read of your dad's passing far too soon. It will not be an easy summer so I hope that his spirit from past summers will remind you daily of his immense love for you and all the wonderful memories you two have shared. Much much love to you ~ Chris Horas and family
Lynn McLafferty
April 20, 2015
Kelsey, I am so sorry for the loss of your father. In the short time I have known you from Farottos, in some of our conversations you would talk about how wonderful you father was and how much you loved him. Your family is in my prayers.
Lynn McLafferty
Chris Muckle
April 20, 2015
Dear Mary, Kyle,and Kelsey, we are so very sorry for your loss. Our condolences to the Reeds and McEachern families and all who loved him. We are so blessed to have spent time with him in St. Louis and Peoria. God bless you in this time of sorrow. The Muckle and MacDonald Family.
Kara Kriegshauser
April 19, 2015
Down-to-earth, hard working, fun and kind are a few words that come to mind when I think of Mr. Reeds. Him and his family have always been so loving to those around them. Mr. Reeds was an amazing example of how to live a full life.
Patti Kazowski
April 19, 2015
I have been remembering the fun and laughter Mark shared with our family in Peterborough during his time living with us. I received my first flowers at 10 from him when he wasn't going to be around for my birthday in June. Another example of his soft heart and kindness. My heart goes out to the Reeds family for your loss.
Patti Kazowski
Jim and Madonna Zoellner
April 19, 2015
Our prayers and sympathy go out to The entire Reeds family. We had the honor of working closely with Mark when he coached the RiverOtters. He truly was a humble man with a passion for his family, teams and fans. Mark will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched. God Bless
Jules Thro
April 19, 2015
So sorry to hear of Mark's passing. While attending a Blues game with my dad as a child, we got there early to watch warmups. After warmups Mark took the time to scoop up some pucks and toss them to the fans. I was lucky enough to get one. A simple gesture but I've always remembered #15.
April 19, 2015
Mark was a wonderful husband, father, neighbor, and friend. He was a "summer guide" to our sons. I will always remember my conversations with Mark- he was a very insightful, determined man and a loving husband and Dad. Our family sends our love to you. Don, Mary Ann, Tim, and Andy Eggleston
April 19, 2015
Mary, Kyle and Kelsey, our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. We are so sorry for your loss. We all have such fond memories of our good times together when you lived here in Peoria. Mark was such a wonderful man and he was so good to Christopher. He experienced so many enjoyable things with Mark and Kyle. Miss you and God bless you all.
Tim, Mary , Chris and Mollie Roark
Jeff Ward
April 19, 2015
My heart and prayers go out to the Reeds family. I consider myself so fortunate to have met your family during your Peoria days and I'll miss Mark deeply. He made everyone around him better. God bless your family Mary and may He bring you comfort.
Michael George
April 19, 2015
To Marks family and all those suffering from this loss, God Bless.
Cherish every moment you have with your father.
Jill Kerbler
April 19, 2015
Robert McEachern
April 18, 2015
To Mary Kelsey and Kyle, Such wonderful father, husband, nephew he was so humble kind and thoughtful.I now how he missed being away from you all. But he loved the game,and from the many messages posted, he sure was loved by many.Aunt Willy and I will have you in our prayers.
Mary Baumgart
April 18, 2015
I love the Reeds family with all my heart. Mark lives in all of you. God bless your family during this difficult time.
Herb Raglan
April 18, 2015
To Mary and Kids, very sorry to hear of Mark's passing, our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. He has left this world too soon but his legacy will live on through the great memories he has created for so many. I was lucky as a kid see Mark win the Memorial Cup with the Petes in'79 and even luckier to end up sitting next to him in the St Louis locker room. Mark not only showed me how to play right wing, he showed me through his actions what a Genuine Person is. RIP 'Dude'
April 18, 2015
Mark was a caring, hardworking, and passionate man. I will miss him dearly
Billy Young
April 17, 2015
My condolences to Mark's friends and family.
April 17, 2015
Mark was a wonderful father, husband and a good neighbor to us while he and Mary lived in Peoria, IL. He showed interest in our children and was a role model for my son. Mark always had a smile on his face and loved "coach" the neighbor kids playing soccer in their driveway. I know he will be dearly missed, our love and prayers are with Mary, Kyle and Kelsey. May God give you His comfort.
April 17, 2015
May the God of all comfort, provide your family with the needed strength to endure the loss of your love one.
April 17, 2015
My thoughts & prayers to Marks family. We talked with him often when he coached the Otters as well when he was with the Blues & his events with the Blueliners. Always enjoyed seeing him play with the Blues & the nickname Kernel when he was burned making pop corn. He was always a lot of fun. LaVern & Frank Whitmire
Howard McEachern also Sampson and Leggett Families
April 17, 2015
It's the little things, the small, everyday occurrences that you'll remember. The laughs, the stories, the smiles. And even though it seems like you can never recover from your loss, it is these very memories that will help push the pain away and bring back the smiles.
April 17, 2015
Mary,Kyle,Kelsey , your father coached my son Joey in Owensound for four years and he was not only his coach but a great friend ! We as parents could not have asked for a better mentor for our son ! He will be missed but never forgotten by the Hishon family ! RIP coach Reeds !
Sue Kriegshauser and family
April 17, 2015
Mark was a wonderful father, husband, and friend. He had such a positive outlook on life.
April 17, 2015
Thoughts and prayers to the Reeds family and friends.Our hearts go out to you all in this difficult time - cherish the memories you had together and find peace and comfort in how many lives he has touched.
Alana (Marks Cousin), Paolo, Liv & James Sacilotto
Frank Rooca
April 17, 2015
In this sorrowful time, I would like to extend to you my heartfelt condolences.
Tracy & Sean Walker
April 17, 2015
...we consider ourselves very lucky to have started billeting the same year that Mark came to O.S. to coach...He always treated us like an important cog in the wheel...wonderful man...wonderful coach. Good for the kids...
Frank Rocca
April 17, 2015
My deepest condolences to Mark`s family. Sorry for your loss, Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Katie Scherer
April 17, 2015
So incredibly sorry for your loss of an amazing husband, father, & friend. We are here for you Mrs. Reeds, Kyle, & Kelsey.
Kim Gorman
April 16, 2015
When I think of Mr. Reeds, I remember the times we spent skating around at the River Otters Rink, listening to him sing those crazy songs (his version of the birthday song), and watching as many of our sports games as was possible with his schedule. He was always smiling and cracking jokes - he will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to meet him. Keep smiling down on us Mr. Reeds :)
Joseph Eglitis
April 16, 2015
Condolences to all the family. ...fond memories of the entire Reeds family during our youth.
April 16, 2015
Mark was a great guy. He always put a smile on our face and made us laugh. He will be miss.
Jim and Chris Gorman
Andy Johnson
April 16, 2015
Prayers of Love, Comfort Kelsey in your dads passing. Take comfort in the coming days with Family and Friends and Rejoice in the memories of his Life. Take Solace in the fact that he is no longer suffering and that he is at Peace. My Heart goes out to you.
Kelsey, I never had the pleasure of meeting your dad, but I'm sure since knowing you, I would have called him my friend too.
Cay Wittenberg
April 16, 2015
Thank you for bringing such great kids into the world. The few times that I met you, Mr. Reeds, I've always admired you and your accomplishments while keeping such a wonderful family. Thoughts and prayers to you, sir. Rest in peace.
Michael D'Orazio
April 16, 2015
Played for Mark in Owen Sound for 2 years. Great man, and great coach. I will never forget Mark stepping onto the ice for the first time at practice rocking a hockey sock as a toque, oh we had a laugh. Mark we will miss you. Rest In Peace Coach. My condolences to the whole Reeds family.
Eileen Pieri
April 16, 2015
MARY, KYLE AND KELSEY
WE ARE SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
EILEEN PIERI
KATIE, MATT AND MIKEY
Lawrence Fillo
April 16, 2015
Mark was a great man! He was very good to everyone. My condolences to Mary, Kyle and Kelsey. My prayers are with you!
KM
April 16, 2015
I am sorry for your loss. Please find peace and comfort in knowing God cares for you and will help you in your time of need. At 1 Pet. 5:7, He invites you to "throw all your anxiety upon Him." Continue to rely on Him for strength during this difficult time.
Wright
April 16, 2015
To the Reeds family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues.We are saddened by your loss. Now is the time to draw close to God and he will draw close to you, comfort and strengthen you. May your fond memories sustain you.
Lynn
April 16, 2015
Sincere condolences to family and loved ones. May the God of all comfort be with you.
April 16, 2015
To the Reeds Family,
SORRY FOR YOUR LOse.
I am an attack fan.
April 16, 2015
rest in peace.one of the attack fans.
Pat Dolan
April 16, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mark.....one of the best coaches and teacher. Not just his legacy, but a real part of Mark, who he was, is carried on by all of the boys and young men he touched.
B Lucas
April 16, 2015
May your time of loss be eased by your fond memories. Thoughts of times gone by can bring pain or hope, here's to hope. May your family and friends find peace and love. My sincere condolence for your loss.
April 16, 2015
YOU HAVE FOUGHT A GOOD FIGHT.
RESTING IN THE ARMS OF JESUS.
Hasan Ozel
April 16, 2015
I knew Mark in Junior High and High School and with hockey in the Downsview area. Very sad to hear the news. Thoughts and prayers to his family.
Mike Shanahan Sr
April 16, 2015
Only the good die young! It was great to have crossed paths with Mark at the St Louis Blues. He was one of the people that made the "Note" special.
May God Bless the family in their loss. Standup Guy, thanks Mark!
April 15, 2015
Mark was an amazing coach and teacher in Kalamazoo. We are thinking of the entire hockey community and his family at this difficult time. God Bless
Mark, Kindra, Jordyn and Ashtyn Vilneff
Scott Chamberland
April 15, 2015
Rest in Peace
April 15, 2015
Laura
Sincere Condolences to you and your family. I know you cherished your family. Caroline Kunz -Kocher
Suzi McGee
April 15, 2015
I am so sorry to hear of Marks's passing. I knew Mark in his early years as a Peterborough Pete and he was always a great guy to be around.
He leaves this world with many accomplishments on the ice and off the with the people he knew and impacted, and his wife and children.
May your fond memories help you through this very difficult time.
Sincerely, Suzi McGee
April 15, 2015
May the Father of tender mercies be with you.
Linda
April 15, 2015
Sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort help you doing this difficult time. Psalms 83 : 18.
B Lucas
April 15, 2015
Most of us can make the most of the situation we are in. That is a testament to our good common sense. Where there is love and a since of wanting to do what's right there's accomplishment. May your fond memories of Mark bring back wonderful thoughts. My sincere condolence for your loss.
G. Freeman
April 15, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
April 15, 2015
my condolences to Mark`s family, knew Mark when i was younger playing hockey and hanging out , very fond memories of Mark he was our team captain and a awesome individual, very sad.
-Sandy MacPherson.
April 15, 2015
Please accept the sympathy that I wish to convey.May your time of bereavement be short,and your fond memories long.May you draw close to God as He draw closer to you....jas.4:8......
April 15, 2015
May God bless you and your family at
this time of your sorrow. May the love
of family and friends be a source of
encouragement and strength. Let God
be your refuge. Psalms 46:1
April 15, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
April 15, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
April 15, 2015
Sorry for your loss. May the "Peace of God"(Phillipians 4:6,7) be with you as you cope with such sorrow.
Dennis & Tracy O'Connell
April 14, 2015
We are very saddened by your tragic loss. Mark was a great man and I have very fond memories of him . I was blessed growing up around the Reeds family.
Jerlyn Lewis
April 14, 2015
What a great loss for the family and friends of Mark Reed. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy.May the comfort God gives strengthen all of you during this difficult time.
R
April 14, 2015
My sincere condolences to all in the family,
I am so sorry to hear great loss.
The Bible speaks of a great time when sickness and death will be no more.
Stacy
April 14, 2015
Sincere condolences to Mark's family and loved ones. May the God of all comfort be with you.
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