Robert Catania
My family friendship and spiritual bond with Reas Allen goes back to about 1968. In terms of the temporal world, it ended a couple weeks ago when we spoke on the phone after I had called him.
My fundamental take away observations of Reas which command my respect center on his unshakeable religious faith and devotion to loyalty and his indomitable strength of character while battling cancer for years and years. It was truly amazing!!
My unequivocal favorite memory of Reas dates back to 1968 after I had met Debbie due to dating her sister Kathy. Debbie, in her good spirited manner, casually mentioned to Reas that she thought he would like me because I was a "nice guy." Reas promptly told Debbie...." I don't like him." During the half century of friendship that followed, multiple times we would recall that memory and laugh.
Another favorite memory of Reas would occur after I had joined the USAF. I was heading to the airport to leave CA to begin my military career and while driving away Reas gave me a crisp military salute. We both still remember that and even talked about it a few weeks ago.
I know those of you reading this also have beautiful, sentimental and emotional feelings and stories about Reas. I embrace those stories and spiritually hug all of you as WE HONOR the memory of a special special person and spirit... Reas Allen.