In the mid 1980s Joe was in the Navy Reserve and "drilled" in that old silver building on the edge of Memorial Park in Colorado Springs. He was a Commander (0-5) at the time and I was a young LCDR in his Reserve unit. He was one of the finest gentlemen/leaders I ever knew. In addition to his many wonderful qualities he had a sense of humor as well. We trained and drilled on weekends in the old building and when we had a lesson on helicopter landing procedures Joe and Jim Colvin (then Attorney General for the City of CS and a fellow Reservist) would stick their arms out and spin to simulate a helo coming down onto the deck of the ship. We all poked fun and laughed with  Jim and Joe because these two pillars of the C Spgs community were spinning with delight in the middle of an old cement floor with 50+ onlookers!
But on a most serious side, Joe was the Navy's local CACO officer (Casualty Assist Calls Officer). So, one of his duties was to go notify parents of the passing of their son/daughter in Vietnam (during his tour in the late 60s and early 7-0s). Tough job but Joe did it with dignity and grace. 
Joe Reich was a true inspiration to many of us and an example for anyone to emulate as they go out into the world. The world needs more Joe Reich, Jrs!

So sorry to learn of Joe's passing. We first met back in the late 1980s as fellow members of the Area Chiefs of Staff Council. Always enjoyed him and his dry, but warm, sense of humor. In more recent years, I would see Joe around the community and we enjoyed lunch together a few years ago. I even paid !!! My family had long time ties with Notre Dame and St. Mary's College (across the highway), so Joe and I had that connection too. Again, so sorry about his passing. Last time I saw him was from a distance, but I could see he was struggling and was on crutches. I called him by phone and we had a great conversation. God bless you, Joe, and rest in peace. You are missed !! From and old friend, Tom

*PLEASE NOTE* Funeral services for Big Joe have been postponed due to diocesan restrictions. Once the diocese of Colorado Springs resumes mass, we will post a new funeral date. Your prayers for the family during this difficult time are welcome and appreciated.

I have many fond memories of the stories Joe and my dad shared of there childhood adventures.  Joe was a true treasure and we will miss him but will always have those memories. Our deepest sympathies to all of the Reich family.
Steve Laushine and family

So sorry to hear about your loss.  I remember Joe flipping me over when I was young.  My deepest sympathy to you all.

Joan Leiweke Marion  (Jane Reich's sister)

The day Joe hired me to work at The Reich Company was one of the luckiest days of my life. Over the years as I followed him to two other companies Joe was a mentor, supporter, and became a treasured friend.
He recommended me to the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce where I worked for a few years. One time I called him to say I'd presented what I thought was a strong case to the board of directors...without success. Joe asked me to tell him what I'd said in my presentation. He was quiet for a while and said, "You did it just like a woman." I wasn't offended, I knew Joe was offering sage advice.
To Joe's family, you are "gentle on my mind."

OBITUARY

Joseph Adam Reich Jr.

22 July, 1935 – 2 March, 2020

Swan-Law Funeral Directors

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