Sherman L. Reed, age 83, passed away on Monday, September 3, 2012 at Saint Vincent Health System, Erie, PA after a brief illness surrounded by his loving family. Sherman was born on August 10, 1929 in Grand River, Ohio son of the late Sherman L. Reed and Bessie Stalker Reed. He graduated from Harvey High School in Painesville, Ohio in 1948 and then entered the US Navy, graduating from the US Naval Submarine School in 1949. Sherman married his high school sweet heart the former Margaret A. Rider while stationed in Hawaii on August 27, 1950.

Reed, Sherman L.Returning to Ohio, Sherm made a respected career of fire fighting beginning in 1956, retiring in 1980 as a Captain. While in that career, Sherm was presented with numerous honors and citations. Sherm and Marge did extensive traveling which they enjoyed very much before settling in Florida. In 1986 his love for fire fighting was rekindled when he joined the Key West Airport Fire Department Crash crew. In 1994, he and his wife made Mill Village their home and on March 27, 2008 she passed away. Sherman was an active member of Veterans of War Post # 169 of Venango.

Preceding Sherman in death in addition to his parents and his wife of 60 years, Marge, was an infant daughter – Sharla and a sister – Evelyn. Survivors include three daughters – Sherri Ann McIver and her husband, Peter; Suzanne M. Smith and her husband, Greg, and Sharlene K. Skiver and her husband, Randy; eleven grandchildren -Anthony, Nikki, Jason, Vincent, Leslie, Ben, Joseph, Adrianne, Jesse. Mae, and Katharine; and six great grandchildren.

Reed, Sherman L.Sherman was blessed in finding true love twice in his life time. He married Joanie on June 3, 2012. He dearly loved his new family which included four daughters -Debbie, Annie, Laurie, and Jennifer and a grand daughter – Abby.

Sherman was known for his wisdom and for his life long stories. Please smile with the family today knowing that he is on the way to heaven and for certain telling jokes as was his nature.

Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs on Friday 2-4 and 7-9. No other service is planned at this time. Memorial gifts may be given to Venango Veterans of War Post 169, 20628 Gospel Hill Road, Venango, PA 16440.