John William Reese

JOHN WILLIAM (JACK) REESE (1939-2009) Was born on March 28, 1939 in Chicago Heights, Ill to Edward and Mary Reese. At age 13, John went to work to help provide for his mother, father, and four siblings, Edward, Judi, Mary Ann, and Katie. In 1959, John moved to California to be with the love of his life, Madaline. Married June 25, 1960, John and Madaline raised four children together. John joined the La Habra Police Department in 1966 as a patrol officer. In his 26 years as a police officer, John was credited with saving many lives, and has been awarded many medals and recognition, including police officer of the year. John was a dedicated police officer, father, and husband. Not even being wounded in 1982 during a bank robbery prevented him from returning to the job that he loved. After retirement, John's joys in life were spending quality time with his children and grandchildren. John is survived by two sisters, Judi Wray and Mary Ann San Martin, his four children, Rick, Kelly Best, Michael and Steven. He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Jason and Melissa Walters, Tessa Wolfe, Jonathan Reese, Joseph and Matthew Reese, and his two great grandchildren, Alyssa and Damien. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife Madaline (9/5/1995), Father Edward (6/10/1991), and mother Mary (11/17/1985). Services for John will be held on Tuesday, November 24th, 2009 at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518, at 12:15pm staging area two. A viewing will be held on Monday, November 23rd, 2009 at Rubidoux Mortuary, 6091 Mission Blvd, Riverside, CA 92509 from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. A reception and celebration of John's life will be held immediately following funeral services at Missio Dei Community Church, 7895 Mission Grove Parkway, Riverside, CA 92508. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Project 999, PO Box 241, Santa Ana, CA 92702. You were the best dad/gramps ever. We miss you...