Ernest "Reed" Adler

Blackfoot, Idaho resident, Reed Adler passed away peacefully on the 15th of March 2025 at the age of 85, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of passion, adventure, and dedication. His life was a rich tapestry of pursuits and relationships that inspired all who knew him.
Born on March 8, 1940, in Long Beach, California, to Ernest and Marjorie Adler, Reed spent his formative years in sunny Southern California growing up with four brothers. He attended Long Beach Polytechnic High School and spent his summers on the family's ranch in Wyoming where he was the only shepherd who wore tennis shoes, not boots. In 1966 Reed graduated from California State University Long Beach with a degree in Physical Education. He was on the University Crew Team and formed life long friendships with many of his team mates. He also met and married Kathleen Haworth during those years and together they embarked on a 20-year partnership filled with love and adventure.
During his college years, Reed was an avid and competitive oarsman. His passion for rowing continued well after graduation winning the US Rowing National Championships in a double shell with Tom Mckibbon and going to the World Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1971. On his way to the 1972 Olympic trials in Boston, Reed stopped to train for 6 weeks in the high altitude of Grand Teton National Park on the picturesque Jenny Lake with his single Pocock racing shell. Kathleen and his two young daughters camped with him in a small tent; bears and moose were common visitors to camp. This unwavering dedication to his craft exemplified the driven and adventurous spirit Reed brought to everything he did.
Blessed with three daughters and a son, the couple built a life rooted in family and exploration. Reed's children cherish the memories of his unwavering support and knack for showing up with help just when it was needed.
Reed's children fondly recall his questionable culinary choices and his knack for surprise. Whether it was giving impromptu guitar lessons-despite their previous ignorance of his musical talents-or revealing his history of owning a combi-van and CJ5 Jeep, Reed kept his family on their toes with delightful discoveries about his multifaceted life.
Cycling became another enduring love for Reed. Whether it was a leisurely weekend ride or training for a local race, he devoted countless hours to the saddle, often joined by family and friends. His enthusiasm for fitness and movement was a hallmark of his life.
A dedicated educator, Reed's teaching career brought him and his family to remote corners of the western United States. From Eugene, Oregon where he coached the Jr Varsity crew team at the University of Oregon to small Wyoming towns where his warmth (and height ) left a lasting impression, to a remote one-room schoolhouse in the mountains of Arizona, and ultimately to Blackfoot, Idaho, where he coached volleyball and taught physical education, Reed's influence was widespread. His students and colleagues remember him as a dynamic and inspirational figure.
Reed and Kathleen parted as friends in 1986 and later in life, Reed found companionship and love again with Ondrea McKee. Sharing a passion for travel and a deep friendship, they forged a new chapter together. Reed was warmly welcomed into the McKee family, especially treasuring this bond as two of his children had relocated to Australia, delighting in 'shrimp-on-the-barbie' adventures.
Reed is survived by his devoted daughters, Elene and Laura, and his son Aaron, grandchildren Tristan and Marian, his wife Ondrea, brothers Tom and Bill, his devoted long-time friend, Debra Romrell, many nieces and nephews and countless friends. His memory will live on in their hearts and the lives he touched during his remarkable journey. Reed Adler will be forever remembered for his adventurous spirit, his enduring dedication, and the love and laughter he brought to all who knew him.
A celebration of Reed's life will be held from 4:30-6:00 p.m. Friday, April 18, 2025 at the Hawker Funeral Home, 132 S. Shilling Avenue in Blackfoot.