Delbert Lee Reed
April 20, 1934 — July 8, 2022
Delbert was born April 20, 1934, to Hubert and Edith (Williams) Reed in Boise City, Oklahoma. His summers were spent joyfully helping his father on the farm. During his high school years, Delbert used his weekends working with Jim Jordan, a local farmer and showman, with his buffalo drives. He was also an active member of Future Farmers of America (FFA) including raising Hampshire hogs and receiving many honors for it, one being Grand Champion. Most suppers with his family involved steak dinners in restaurants as a special treat. Delbert graduated from Boise City High School in 1952.
On June 6, 1954, Delbert and Bea Strasburg were united in marriage. They established their home on the Cap Williams ranch where Delbert was employed while raising Hereford cattle. In 1956, they moved to California for a new start. Soon after the move, Delbert’s uncles recommended him for a job at Almas International, a house moving company, because of his skill and work ethic. He excelled in the job, working his way up to foreman to eventually becoming a heavy hauler/rigger in many states and internationally, including Spain and Mexico. During his career, he moved historical buildings and monuments, electrical transformers, large equipment, the Spruce Goose move to Long Beach, and most notably The Titanic movie set. When he couldn’t find the needed equipment, he would design it. There wasn’t much Delbert could not fix. He was the neighbor that had the open garage door policy. If he was in the garage and you needed help, you could come on in. He did all of the maintenance and repairs on his rental houses. Painting crews were often a family affair.
After retiring, Delbert and Bea enjoyed traveling by car taking in the scenery. They enjoyed spending time at their second home in Kenton, Oklahoma, visiting relatives, going to Branson, Missouri, and especially visiting their grandchildren. He spent the time before his passing reminiscing about his favorite trips to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Dollywood.
Surviving Delbert is children, Pamela Allen and her husband Richard, Michele Durbin, and husband Scott, Michael Reed. Grandchildren, Amanda Riedel, and husband Brandon and Jenna Durbin. Brother-in-law Robert Strasburg and wife Dora, along with many nieces and nephews and other family and friends.
Delbert was predeceased by his wife, Bea, sister Delta Boothby, brother-in-law Herman Strasburg, Sam Strasburg, and sister-in-law Jean Harkins.
Condolences for the family can be sent through our website.
On June 6, 1954, Delbert and Bea Strasburg were united in marriage. They established their home on the Cap Williams ranch where Delbert was employed while raising Hereford cattle. In 1956, they moved to California for a new start. Soon after the move, Delbert’s uncles recommended him for a job at Almas International, a house moving company, because of his skill and work ethic. He excelled in the job, working his way up to foreman to eventually becoming a heavy hauler/rigger in many states and internationally, including Spain and Mexico. During his career, he moved historical buildings and monuments, electrical transformers, large equipment, the Spruce Goose move to Long Beach, and most notably The Titanic movie set. When he couldn’t find the needed equipment, he would design it. There wasn’t much Delbert could not fix. He was the neighbor that had the open garage door policy. If he was in the garage and you needed help, you could come on in. He did all of the maintenance and repairs on his rental houses. Painting crews were often a family affair.
After retiring, Delbert and Bea enjoyed traveling by car taking in the scenery. They enjoyed spending time at their second home in Kenton, Oklahoma, visiting relatives, going to Branson, Missouri, and especially visiting their grandchildren. He spent the time before his passing reminiscing about his favorite trips to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Dollywood.
Surviving Delbert is children, Pamela Allen and her husband Richard, Michele Durbin, and husband Scott, Michael Reed. Grandchildren, Amanda Riedel, and husband Brandon and Jenna Durbin. Brother-in-law Robert Strasburg and wife Dora, along with many nieces and nephews and other family and friends.
Delbert was predeceased by his wife, Bea, sister Delta Boothby, brother-in-law Herman Strasburg, Sam Strasburg, and sister-in-law Jean Harkins.
Condolences for the family can be sent through our website.
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