Blog Update

I hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. I had a blessed day with my family, but also lost my grandfather that morning. As many of you may know, Frenchy has been battling cancer for over a year so in some ways we are thankful that his suffering is over. Your continued prayers for my family are greatly appreciated.

Love,
Katy

Leonard R. Reel, Jr. "Frenchy" Leonard R. Reel, Jr. "Frenchy" passed away Thursday, November 24, 2005. Frenchy was born August 6, 1922 in Paris, France to Leonard R. Reel, Sr. and Alice Clements Reel. Frenchy was Chairman of Reel Pie & Valve Co. where he was a lifetime employee. He would have been eligible to retire in 2016. Frenchy graduated from Shortridge High School in 1942 and was a member of the 1940 Shortridge High School football team that beat Tech High School 20-0. Members of that team gather every year to retell the story and celebrate that great victory. Frenchy was a member of the Pi Chapter (Indiana University), Beta Theta Pi. He was president of the pledge class and vice president of the house. Frenchy landed in Normandy and fought in WWII as a member of the 2nd Division's 9th Infantry. He helped free the Fortress of Brest, which was the location of German submarines. He was decorated with the Bronze Star and 2nd Combat Infantry Medal. Frenchy was a member of Tabernacle Presbyterian Church. A member of The Indiana Manufacturers Assoc., Highland C.C., Five Seasons C.C., Athenauem, Indianapolis Racquet Club, and the 500 Festival Committee. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ann Heidenreich Reel; sons, Leonard R. Reel III (Patty), William J. Reel (Sally); daughter, Jody Reel Davis (Jim); grandsons, Leonard R. Reel IV, Tony Vance and Bo Reel; granddaughters, Katy Reel, Amy Reel, and Holly Vance; great-grandson, Jeremy Moorman; great-granddaughter, Kendall Moorman; brothers, John Reel and William Reel. He was preceded in death by his sister, Suzanne Iverson and Elizabeth Cooper. Funeral services will be held at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, 418 E. 34th Street, Indianapolis on Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. A "Celebration of Life Gathering" will be held at the Five Seasons C.C., 1300 E. 96th Street, beginning at 5:00 p.m. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be made to the church or charity of our choice. Flanner & Buchanan Funeral Center - Broad Ripple is providing the arrangements. www.flanner-buchanan.com

The Indianapolis Star, November 27, 2005