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BORN
1958
DIED
2025
Richard Reding Obituary
December 9, 1958 – April 20, 2025
Richard Keith Reding, Jr., passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and inspiration. Born on December 9, 1958, in Mayfield, Kentucky, he was the firstborn of Richard Keith Reding Sr. and Sarah Workman Reding. His younger sister, Sue Kim, completed their family. When Keith was two, the Reding family embarked on a new chapter in Kern County.
Keith's formative years were spent in Wasco, where he attended the local schools and graduated from Wasco High School in 1977. His pursuit of knowledge led him to California State University, Chico, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. It was in Chico that Keith's life was further enriched when he met Sandra Eriksen. Their connection blossomed, and they married in 1980.
Returning to Wasco, and later settling in Bakersfield, Keith and Sandra joyfully welcomed three sons: Patrick, Christopher, and Jordan. Keith embraced fatherhood with enthusiasm, dedicating countless weekends to supporting his sons' athletic endeavors. He actively participated in their lives, coaching basketball, baseball, and soccer, and even serving as a soccer referee.
Keith found his professional calling as a teacher within the Kern High School District, where he passionately served for 35 years. Beyond the classroom, he generously mentored new educators and achieved a Master's in Administration from California State University, Bakersfield. Whether as a teacher or a vice principal, Keith's unwavering commitment was to inspire his students to reach their full potential. His impactful contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious Teacher of the Year award for his district.
Keith also found strength and community through his involvement with Alcoholics Anonymous, where he led group meetings and offered support to others.
Keith was preceded in death by his father, Richard Sr. He is survived by his mother, Sarah, his sister Kim Edwards, his brother-in-law, Doug Edwards, his wife, Sandra, his beloved sons, Patrick, Chris, and Jordan, and his daughter-in-law, Maritza.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his kindness, his dedication to education, and the positive influence he had on so many lives.
A service to celebrate Keith's life will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11:00AM at Grace Community Church, Wasco - 1544 7th St, Wasco, CA 93280. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to North of the River Recreation Foundation www.norfun.org/donate-to-the-foundation-online
www.bakersfield.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Reding
Candace C.
July 4, 2025
Mr. Reding was my high school world history teacher. He was beloved by all of his students for his earnest efforts to enrich us and broaden our world view. His laid back style, marked by his distinctive Birkenstocks and Hawaiian shirts, put us all at ease and made for a creative environment full of honest conversations, which he encouraged. The opportunities he opened up for us are definitely some of my fondest high school memories. He no doubt touched many lives. I'm very sorry to hear about his passing. My sincere condolences to his wife and family.
Raul Martinez
May 10, 2025
I worked with Keith at EBHS for many years. He always had the children´s interest at heart.
A good man was laid to rest.
Robin Albert Boucher
May 7, 2025
I´m so sorry to hear, he was always a pleasure to be around.
Jim Rowbottom
May 7, 2025
Both Keith and his father Richard were great men and will be missed.
BRIAN C KEMP
May 1, 2025
Rest in Paradise, Young Man
Kevin and Sheri Merritt
April 27, 2025
We are deeply saddened to lose Keith! Our hearts are with his family.
Cynthia Munn
April 27, 2025
Dear Sandy and boys
My prayers are with you. Keith was a big part of my career. We started as energetic young teachers. We shared many of the same students and attended many workshops, field trips and lesson plans. We both had 3 sons who we shared stories about over the years. Sandy was an incredible sense of support throughout their marriage. Keith and I talked about our shared Catholic faith and family values . He encouraged so many students and teachers. I will treasure the many memories
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