Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Todd Reed Obituary
Todd Leland Reed
June 19, 1964-May 4, 2023
Todd Leland Reed, 58, passed away at his childhood home in Davenport, on May 4th.
There might not have been a bigger fan of Bob Dylan. Todd entertained his high school classmates with his versions of "Blowing in the Wind" and "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" at parties and in talent shows at Davenport Central High (Class of '82), then went on to sing at various bars in the Cedar Falls/Waterloo area when he attended the University of Northern Iowa.
Following in Dylan's footsteps, Todd dropped out of UNI and pursued life in the Big Apple. But, eventually he grew to miss his hometown, and returned to Davenport in the late '80s and began a series of jobs in graphic design and printing. Along the way, he continued to play (and collect) acoustic and electric guitars.
Fiercely liberal, Todd had a specific, idealistic sense of how things should work. He didn't care if others disagreed with his views. Consequently, he ruffled feathers. In the end, though, he would acquiesce and make amends, figuring that friendship was more important than "being right."
Along with music, Todd loved dogs (especially German Shepherds), rabbits, cigarettes, a stiff drink, reading, the Buffalo Bills and laughter.
Complex. Loyal. Nostalgic. Todd was all of these. His was the last chapter of a complicated family. Mother, Shirley, died in August 2021, after a brief but spirited fight with cancer. (Todd served as her loving caretaker the entire way.) Brother, Christopher, passed in August 2015, at the age of 52. Father, Robert or "Buzzy", died in 2005.
Rest in peace, Todd. We love you.
Arrangements for a Celebration of Life are pending, and will be announced via Facebook.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Todd Reed
Sally Leonard
June 13, 2023
I knew Todd through my high school friends. He was thoughtful and kind. Rest in peace.
Steve Metz
June 1, 2023
I met Todd my freshman year at UNI, we lived on the same floor in Dancer Hall. Todd and I broke a lot of bread, listened to a great deal of music and drank many pints at Steb´s. I hope Todd is at peace and enjoying time with those who went before him.
JVG
May 29, 2023
UNI Northern Iowan alumni- I remember one of the intense debates we had was if Aerosmith´s; "Rocks" or "Toys in the Attic" was a superior work - I had to play my last card, noting the origin of the film "Dazed & Confused" opens with "Sweet Emotion" - end of discussion. Dream On Todd!
Corinna Tutor
May 16, 2023
May your spirit find eternal peace, and may your melodies continue to resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness your brilliance. You will be forever loved and deeply missed, dear friend.
Joe Castel
May 11, 2023
May you find that peace you were always looking for Todd. We sure had some great times on the school newspaper. Never will forget your humor, talent and friendship.
Brian Bussard
May 11, 2023
Todd was a brilliant musician and an intelligent compassionate thoughtful soul. I met him at UNI and enjoyed his friendship as well as his music. I briefly owned that black custom-made Ovation he was constantly banging on. Wish I still had it and wish we still had him. RIP Todd.
steve Mendenhall
May 11, 2023
Its Steve Al. Nore memories than I can count. He was my brother. We [played music and traveled around for decades. Will be setting up a memorial Jam in Cedar Falls. Anyone interested call 319-290-0713
Laurie Kroeger
May 11, 2023
My thoughts and prayers are with you all you're going to miss our talks tonight rest In The arms of our Lord and Jesus Christ you're at peace now.
Dave Bedford
May 10, 2023
RIP buddy. Rest easy.
Michelle S Ruckman
May 10, 2023
May your soul Rest In Peace Todd!
Kit & Jim
May 10, 2023
Rest peacefully, Todd.
Thomas Stolley
May 10, 2023
I met Todd at UNI and had a lot of good memories of hanging out and of course going down to College Hill to listen to any good band that was playing. We both grew up in Davenport but went to different schools. My condolences to his family.
Thomas Stolley
Joe Cacciatore
May 9, 2023
I hope you've found peace, old friend. If you see my grandma, ask her about the ravioli. Farewell.
Gail and Ed
May 9, 2023
RIP, Todd. We are sorry that you are no longer here. Peace
Jeffery R Hunt
May 9, 2023
The music will always live. I love you Todd! May you rest easy now.
Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results
Make a Donation
in Todd Reed's name
Memorial Events
for Todd Reed
How to support Todd's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Todd Reed's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
