(November 15, 1938 – April 9, 2025)
Conrad George Reich, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025. He was 86 years old.
Born in Smithton, Pennsylvania, and raised in Hazleton, Conrad lived a life rooted in service, family, and unwavering faith. From a young age, he was fascinated by airplanes and military history, passions that led him into a distinguished 27-year career in the United States Air Force. Through his military service, Conrad saw the world, forged lifelong bonds, and earned numerous honors, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Armed Forces Presidential Unit Citation, the Outstanding Unit Award, the Armed Forces Good Conduct Medal,the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Vietnam Service, among many others.
Conrad continued his work in avionics at Tinker Air Force Base, bringing his family to settle in Oklahoma. In retirement, he enjoyed dabbling in the stock market, tinkering with projects around the house, and, most of all, helping and spending time with his family.
Conrad never met a stranger. He had a gift for conversation and always saw the best in others. His warm smile and kind spirit made him a treasured friend and mentor to many. He was deeply involved in his Catholic faith and was a proud and active member of the Knights of Columbus, where he rose to the distinguished position of Supreme Knight and served on the Supreme Council.
Conrad is survived by his beloved wife Gloria of 59 years, whom he married on October 2, 1965, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. He is also survived by his six children: Tricia and her husband Aaron, Jeannie, Merri and her husband Matt, Peter and his wife Beth, Daniel, and Jason. He leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren: Mason, Rachel, Miller, Faith, Gabe, Lorien, Catherine, Dalton, Chloe.
He is also survived by his daughter-in-law Kelly Cotrell, his sister Anne Marie and her husband Joe, his brother Lewis and his wife Gwen, and the Keenan family, who were dear to his heart.
Conrad was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Lewis Reich, and his sister Olivia.
A Funeral Mass to celebrate Conrad’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church.
Conrad’s life was a testament to faith, dedication, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of service and a family that will forever cherish his memory.
Webmaster’s Note: Conrad Reich was the son of Lewis Joseph Reich (1908-2003) and Elizabeth Catherine Zambotti (1912-1995). He was the grandson of Pietro (Peter) Zambotti (1881-1966) and Ottilia (Tilly) Genetti (1890-1985). Peter and Tilly were both born in Castelfondo, Tyrol. The Zambotti and Genetti families have a long ancestral history in the small northern Italian village stretching back centuries.
In honor of Conrad’s distinguished military career, he was given a 21-gun salute at his funeral.
Click to view video of 21-gun salute on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BoUVDC6p3
The Genetti Family Genealogy Project 