Marvin Dennis Reaser Jr.

Marvin Dennis Reaser, Jr.

After being hospitalized in early July of this year, he was properly diagnosed. By that time, the disease had physically overtaken him, but he was always cognizant of what was going on and eager to keep learning and improving. He made valiant efforts at physical and occupational therapy, but was ultimately unable to recover. His final weeks were spent at home being loved and cared for by his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and closest friends. A flood of loving and grateful messages from former students, friends, and colleagues were received and read to Dennis each day during this time, bringing comfort not only to him but also to his family and friends. Most importantly, he used his final days to firm up his relationships with his dearest and closest loved ones, and to reconcile his heart to his Maker's. During his hospital and hospice time, he repeatedly asked to hear one particular song: "Mirror" by Evie Tornquist Karlsson. Evie herself emailed Dennis twice when she was made aware of this fact.

Former students will recall myriad "Reaserisms" that have stuck with them through the years. One of them, "Life is a constant struggle to get back in tune," truly captures the spirit of how Dennis lived. He remained naturally curious into his golden years, introducing himself to strangers young and old, sometimes to brag about his children, but more often to tell a joke. He loved meeting people who were from West Virginia or who were fans of West Virginia University. Likewise, he was partial to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. If he spotted someone wearing a cap or other indication of their service, he always approached them and struck up a conversation. Often, he'd give them a recording of his Pearl Harbor memorial opus, "Pearl," on CD, performed by the U.S. Army Band. When he was proud of you, he made sure you knew it. If he was beyond proud of you, he'd pull out his wallet and hand you a twenty dollar bill. His family, friends and loved ones have countless happy memories of Dennis, and we are honored to have known a great man who never stopped searching for truth, trying to improve himself and who had such a profound, positive impact on the lives of those around him.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Artie Reaser; his sister, Sally Reaser Davis; and his mother- and father-in-law, Kate Harmon Angle and Carson Harmon. He is survived by his wife, Mary Powers Reaser; his brother, David Reaser (Linda); and his brother-in-law, Richard Davis; children, Robin Martin (Kevin), Sarah Reaser O'Brien (Todd), Emily Reaser Bauer Selbe (Frank), and Andrew Dennis Reaser (Jennifer); stepsons, Alan Powers (Susan) and Philip Powers; grandchildren, Jeremy O'Brien (Rachel), Will O'Brien (Lilly), Hannah Bauer, Jamie Bauer, Sarah Bauer, Lauren Martin, and Collin Martin; step grandsons, Remington Powers (Ashley) and Jacob Powers; great-grandsons Titus O'Brien and Yewin O'Brien; and step great-grandchildren, Colt Powers and Codi Powers.

The family wish to thank Glenn Schwizer, Pastor Steve Hall, members of the Gloryland Band, and everyone else who filled Dennis's heart and mind with blessings, memories, and truth in his final days. Gentiva Hospice was of great assistance, and particular thanks go to Jeremy Howard, whose compassion and concern extended beyond physical needs.

Dennis was adamant that there be no funeral in his honor. The family will hold a private graveside service at Ketron Cemetery in Ronceverte, WV, in the near future. A celebration of Mr. Reaser's life in which former students, friends, and colleagues may reunite and share memories is likely to be planned and announced soon in the Pride of Salem Alumni group on Facebook. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation of any amount to the Dennis Reaser Pride of Salem Scholarship, which is awarded annually to a deserving graduating band member. And listen to some good jazz. That would make Dennis very happy.

Donations may be made online by searching "Dennis Reaser" here https://sefandaa.org

Checks made payable to the Salem Educational Foundation and Alumni Association may be mailed to SEFAA, Dennis Reaser Pride of Salem Endowment, PO Box 1461, Salem, VA 24153. Be sure to write "Dennis Reaser Endowment" in the memo area of your check.

Arrangements by

Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Chapel

(540)366-0707