Lionel DeMello Reis, a man who lived for his family, died at his home on Dec. 20, 2003. He was 70 years of age and a four-year resident of Oak Harbor.

Mr. Reis was born in New Bedford, MA, on Jan. 15, 1933, to Manuel Reis and Mary (DeMello) Reis. He was raised in New Bedford, and grew up in a fishing community. Following school, he joined the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, and served for four years. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, and served until retirement in 1974. Following this, he was employed by Civil Service for the Department of the Navy, retiring as a Senior Technician (GS-12) at San Diego, completing over 40 years of service to his country.

Lionel was married to Margot Leskiehn in January 1960 in Detmold, Germany. They resided in San Diego for 27 years before moving to Oak Harbor in 1999. Lionel’s entire life revolved around his wife, children and grandchildren.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Lionel is survived by his wife Margot, at home; one son, CDR Ron Reis, USN, and his wife Dr. Nancy Reis of Oak Harbor; one daughter, Roxane Reis-Barkley and husband Stephen of Bellevue; also, two granddaughters, Bridget and Lauren.

Services will be private. Interment will take place at Sunnyside Cemetery, with Military Honors under the auspices of McChord Air Force Base Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 4414 Woodland Park Avenue N., Seattle, WA 98103. Arrangements under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.