Ralph Murray Reed

so why can't we

attempt to fly

elevated

and free.

In my next life

I'd gladly forego words

and come back to this garden

as a humming bird.

We are overcome with sadness at the sudden death of Ralph M. Reed on August 6, 2017. There are few words or ways to deal with the loss of someone so loved, so talented and now, so missed.

Sensitive, talented, introspective and self-deprecating, wit and humor were his trademarks. Ralph poured his heart out for all to see in his varied artistic endeavors and was an extraordinary visionary when given a blank canvas...be it an uninspiring parcel of land, a plain piece of paper, a nondescript house, a neglected hedge, or a pile of discarded materials just waiting to be turned into a sculpture courtesy of his vivid and expansive imagination.

Early on Ralph was a voracious reader who developed a deep affinity for the cynical humor authors Joseph Heller, Tom Robbins and Ken Kesey. He went on earn his BA in English. "Life as I Misperceive It", the title of Ralph's final self-published trilogy, was a juxtaposition of love, darkness and humor and reflects those early influences. In true Ralph fashion, he inscribed one copy, "All future babble will be spoken only. Love, Ralph"

A unique opportunity 35 years ago took him to Whidbey Island where he lived and honed his horticultural and writing skills, found solitude, mentors, a dream motorcycle, and most importantly met and had the good sense to marry, Susan Holt Reed. In a meadow, on a beautiful summer day in 2003, surrounded by loving childhood friends and family from around the world they shared their love, hopes and dreams.

'Uncle Ralph' was the uncle every kid dreams of...allowing himself to be subjected to games and behavior few parents would tolerate. Fortunately just as his nieces and nephews matured, Ralph and Susan were blessed with the birth of grandson, Ignatius, and Ralph stepped up with hugs, kisses, and silliness for 'Iggy'. Last month Ralph wrote, "He calls me grandpa, and that's just enough to melt my poor, old, jaded heart."

Adored by his family and lifelong dear friends, Ralph brought us love, light and laughter that we will hold in our hearts forever. Ralph is survived by his wife, Susan; mother, Joan; brother, Richie; sister, Lisa (Dan Feshbach); nieces, Emma Feshbach, Sage Thomas; nephew, Reed Feshbach; stepdaughter, Jessica Williams-Holt (Jerome Howse); grandson, Ignatius Howse.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to: Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave, Langley, WA 98260.