Walter J. Reis

Walter J. Reis, Jr., 53, of Arvada, CO, beloved husband of Regina Alexander-Reis, died August 30 in a motorcycle accident on I-70, west of Denver. Born on November 19, 1957, he graduated from Marlborough (MA) High School, Class of 1975, and served in the United States Air Force from 1975-80, stationed in Germany. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts/Boston, School of Nursing in 1986 and worked for six years at Zablocki Veteran†™s Hospital in Milwaukee, WI. For the past 19 years, Walter worked as a critical-care nurse at the Denver VA Medical Center. Those who worked with him benefited from his extraordinary professional expertise, compassionate heart and unwavering dedication to American Veterans. He was blessed with a genuine love of life that manifested itself through smiles, laughter, a kind heart and boundless generosity, all of which he shared selflessly with anyone fortunate enough to cross his path. A pinnacle event in his life was the marriage this past July 3 of his daughter Ariane, his pride and joy, to Mark Corcoran, in Austin, TX. Always a dedicated family man, Walter found deep contentment and happiness being surrounded by his mother, siblings and others close to him who cherished his exuberance and gentleness. Walter loved riding his motorcycle. The peace and serenity he experienced on the open road cleansed his spirit and reinvigorated his soul. He also was a master wood craftsman, a passionate Colorado Rockies fan, a ruthless opponent in any board game and an enthusiastic bowler. He always made time to stop by "Olde Towne" Arvada, a neighborhood he treasured. Walter was able to share and enjoy these activities with his wife and best friend, Regina. He is predeceased by his father, Walter J. Reis, Sr. In addition to Regina, and Ariane and Mark, who live in Austin, TX, he is survived by his mother, Mary L. Reis, of Hollywood, FL, who gave Walter the gift of humor. He also leaves his brother, Michael Reis, and his wife, Kristy Kowalczyk, of Louisville, CO; his sister, Ann Marie Potter of West Simsbury, CT; and his sister, Yvonne Reis and her partner Bonnie Canino of Dania Beach, FL. Uncle †œWaltah†� adored his nieces and nephews: Amanda, Stephen, Wyatt, Georgia and Grace, and never missed a birthday or holiday. He created and maintained special relationships with Regina's children, Kevin, Brandon and Alicia Johnson, of CO; as well as with Ariane's brother, Liam Doherty, of Austin, TX., and Liam's father, Brian. Walter had a lasting friendship with Ariane's mother and his first wife, Mia Carter. A Memorial Service, Thursday, Sept 8, 11:00 AM, at the VA Medical Center Auditorium, 1055 Clermont Street. Denver. Burial at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Area B, 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Denver VA Fisher House Foundation or the nearest Toys for Tots. Birth: Nov 19, 1957, Medford, Massachusetts Death: Aug 30, 2011, Golden, Colorado