Donald R. Reichert age 78 , of West Deptford, passed away March 3rd, 2014, at home surrounded by his loving family.
Don grew up in Thorofare and graduated from Verga School, where he met the love of his life Barbara. He was a proud member of the Paulsboro High School Class of '54. In 1958 he married Barb, and began a wonderful 43 year marriage until her death in 2001. He joined the National Guard, fulfilling his belief that citizens should serve their country. Don worked as a draftsman/designer for Texaco and RCA and worked as an engineer for General Motors for 32 years, retiring in 1997.
Don spent his retirement on projects. He felt it was a "wasted day" when something wasn't accomplished. He helped his children with home renovations, he helped his friends with building projects, he even saw to the upkeep of the cemeteries where his family and friends were buried. One of his proudest accomplishments was the work he did renovating his own home.
He was one of a kind and a true gentleman. He could fix anything, make anything, organize everything and had such a gentle way about him. His grandchildren often said "Pop-Pop can do anything". He was a constant presence to all that knew him, always there when needed.
Don loved his country, his county and his town. He was particularly proud of the township's development of Riverwinds and joined when it opened, working out 3 days a week. He took swimming lessons at 70 and fulfilled a lifelong dream by taking rowing lessons on the Cooper River at age 77.
Husband of the late Barbara Ann, he is survived by 3 children daughter Judy Munns (Joseph), son Jeff Reichert (Cecy), daughter Jan Lipman, 6 grandchildren Celie Reichert, Wes (Mandi) and Abby Munns, Jake, Ethan and Sarah Lipman, 1 great granddaughter Vanessa Munns, sister Joan Joseph (Barry), sisters-in-law Beverly Wadding & Betty Reichert. Predeceased by brother Joseph.
Family and Friends are invited to a Graveside Funeral Service 1 PM Saturday March 8th, 2014 at Woodbury Memorial Park in West Deptford.
Donations in Don's memory can be made to the Scholarship Fund of the PHS Golden Anniversary Club, 22 Harmony Road, Mickleton, NJ 08056.
Memories and condolences can be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com