RIP Atomic Veteran Ivan Eric Reid: A Life of Service and Courage

Honoring a Navy Veteran, Public Servant, and Motorcycle Enthusiast

Rank: U.S. Navy Veteran

Branch: U.S. Navy

Service Location: Enewetak Atoll, Pacific

In the small town of Warren, Texas, the life of Ivan Eric Reid, born on January 26, 1953, in Salem, Oregon, to Ivan Alton and Hidvie Valera Hazard Reid, stands as a remarkable testament to service, dedication, and courage. Ivan's journey was one of unwavering commitment, not just to his country but to his community, family, and passions.

His story is a reflection of the strength and bravery of a man whose life touched many and left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

Ivan’s 14-year career in the U.S. Navy was one of the defining chapters of his life. Among his notable achievements was his service as part of the Enewetak Atoll cleanup group, a mission fraught with danger. The radioactive contamination left behind by nuclear testing posed significant risks, and only the bravest souls were tasked with facing those challenges.

Ivan was one of those brave souls, confronting the peril head-on and contributing to a safer world for future generations. His courage during this hazardous mission exemplified the kind of strength and selflessness that defined his life.

When Ivan’s time in the Navy came to a close, his dedication to service did not end. He transitioned into civilian life by taking on multiple roles that continued to protect and support his community. He served as a police officer, firefighter, and paramedic, each role a reflection of his commitment to helping others.

His time as a dispatcher for Acadian Ambulance Service further demonstrated his unwavering sense of duty. Ivan’s contributions to his community were nothing short of heroic, as he worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of those around him.

Outside of his career in service, Ivan found joy in life’s simple pleasures. His love for motorcycles was a passion that brought him immense happiness. The open road, the wind in his face, and the freedom that came with riding were all things Ivan cherished deeply. He was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, and this passion was a defining part of who he was, a reminder that while Ivan was a man of duty, he also lived life to the fullest.

On Wednesday, February 4, 2015, Ivan Eric Reid passed away at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of service, courage, and love. He was a beloved husband to Kristi Reid, with whom he shared 15 years of companionship, and a loving father to his sons, Shannon Eric Reid and Justin Michael Reid.

He was also a proud grandfather to Navarree Dyllon Reid-Dickson, Nova Kelly Hays, Davin Lee Reid, and Mali Elora Reid. His family was the center of his life, and his love for them was boundless.

Ivan’s legacy extends far beyond his military service or his public service roles. His life was a testament to the power of dedication, bravery, and compassion. He left an enduring impact on the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will forever stand as a beacon of what it means to live a life of service and commitment to others.

As we honor the life of Ivan Eric Reid, we are reminded that his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched, a reminder of the profound difference one person can make in the world.