Today I received the bad that my former employer and friend, Wayne Reed has passed away at age 78.
Wayne Reed was president of Northeast Plumbing in Mineola until he retired a number of years ago and had moved to Florida. I had known Wayne for about 40 years since he hired me back in 1980 when we were in Great Neck and worked for him for many decades.
He was a good businessman but his kindness to others was unequal. Wayne also did volunteer work and did what he could to help others in need.
Those he employed he treated like family. He often said to me: “Fred I think of you like a brother, so do the right thing by me.”
Wayne over the years often helped me with my various financial problems which I don’t know many employers would have done the same. He was a big man at six foot five but had a heart full of kindness that generated much sunshine.
Last Christmas he sent me a Christmas card that read, “”Fred thanks for being a good friend and thank you for the years.”
I am 70 years old and have met many people but I think God broke the mold when he brought Wayne Reed into this world. Wayne’s family and friends are truly mourning a good man, as I am as well. Wayne Reed will be greatly missed.
Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
Mineola
