Saturday, September 5, 2026

 Claude “Skip” Reed

    Claude "Skip" Reed, age 75, passed away peacefully on August 24, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on July 8, 1951 in Howell, Michigan, to Dorothy (Hicks) and Glendon Reed; the third of ten siblings. Skip moved to Muskegon, MI where he met his wife Cindy and spent the last 44 years together.

    Throughout his life, he was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent many years in the construction industry. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, determination, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Outside of work, he had a true passion for golf. He enjoyed time on the course, the friendships he made along the way, and the simple pleasure of being outdoors doing something he loved.

    He also proudly served his country as an Army veteran. His service was a reflection of his courage, dedication, and commitment to others. His favorite pastimes were cheering on the Michigan State Spartans and Detroit Lions, attending Muskegon's local festivals, helping friends and family with "do it yourself" projects, and traveling to Chicago to spend time with his daughter and family. However, his most cherished memories are those spent with his two beautiful grandsons; playing catch, basketball, board games, and trips to the zoo. He will always be remembered as the one where no outfit was ever complete without the perfect, color-coordinated hat.

    He leaves behind his loving family, including his wife, Cindy (Somerville) Reed; daughter, Amber McLaughlin; son-in-law, John McLaughlin; his cherished grandchildren, Reed and Spencer McLaughlin; and siblings, Gerald (Mary) Reed, Glen (Jane) Reed, Kenneth (Cindy) Reed, Steven Reed, James (Tammy) Reed, Janice (Michael) Lovejoy, Thomas Reed, James Kelly (Bo), and many extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

    He was preceded in death by his mother and father; brothers, Tim Reed and Fredrick Reed; and mother and father in-law, Lola and Virgil Somerville.

Skip will be remembered for the life he built, the people he touched, his love of golf, and being the best papa. He leaves behind cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

    A CELEBRATION OF SKIP'S LIFE will be held on Sunday, September 27 from 1:00 – 4:00 PM at Bella Maria's Event Center, 513 W. Pontaluna Rd., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial contributions may be directed to the The Parkinson's Foundation through our family's team, Steps for Skip. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.

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