BOMBER MEMORIAL

MICHAEL ROBERT "MIKE" REARDON ~ Class of 1969
April 10, 1951 - December 16, 2019



Written by Tom Albert ('69):

"Mike Reardon was born on April 10, 1951 and attended various schools in Richland including Columbia High School ('69) before attending and graduating from Central Washington State University.

A major part of his work career was working for Boeing in Seattle until his retirement in 2006.

On December 16, 2019 Mike passed away after a courageous six-year battle with leukemia. His loving wife Jeanne, and daughters Rosanna and Molly Lu were by his side to see him off to his next journey.

Mike had many adventures and loves that he pursued with a passion, but nothing was more important to him than his family. Countless family vacations to Hawaii, then Ireland and other locations, and wonderful camping trips created a kaleidoscope of smiles and warm memories that will not be forgotten by his family and friends.

He enjoyed music, cooking (a passion that was taken up by his daughter Rossana of YouTube fame), and many other hobbies too numerous to mention.

One of Mike's big joys was being Grandpa to Molly Lu and husband Greg's little bundle of joy Greyson. Mike had a passion for playing Mandolins and other musical instruments, and he was well on the way to imparting this gift to his grandson.

He was a great classmate, friend, and a wonderful, loving pillar of strength to his family and all those with whom he came in contact. His contagious smile and loving ways were shared so easily with all of us who were fortunate to have known him.

Not everyone knew of Mike's condition, as he chose not to dwell on it, but rather to live each and every day to the fullest and on his terms.

The recent class of '69 50th reunion had the neat experience of Mike and Jeanne's help in planning and setting up for this successful event this last summer. Mike was thrilled to play his mandolin and sing with Jeff Curtis ('69) and Alan Smith ('69) in front of their classmates in attendance at the main event. Just one look at all the great selfie pictures that Mike took with classmates can't help but make you smile.

Mike is survived by his wife of 43 years Jeanne, daughters Rossana Pansino (Mike) and Molly Lu Bailey (Greg and grandson Greyson), brother Pat ('72) (Bettina), sisters Nancy Reardon (Ken) and Penni Miles, niece Michelle, and nephews Sean, Ashley and Jon.

Mike's parents William and Mavis were waiting for Mike to be his guide on his next big trip.

We all will miss Mike more than words can ever express.

A celebration of Mike's life in an informal setting will be announced at a later date."

Bomber Memorial put together by Shirley COLLINGS Haskins ('66).