Eleanor J. Reid

Eleanor (Ellie) J. Reid, of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away peacefully in Traverse City on October 5, 2026, at the age of 95. She was born on May 15, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, and was daughter of Clara Kidder and stepdaughter of R. B. Jack Kidder.

After graduating from Cass Technical High School in Detroit in 1949, Eleanor began her career at National Machine and Broach Company before joining Standard Oil Company, both in Detroit. It was there that she met the love of her life, Ewart W. “Mike” Reid Jr. They married on April 26, 1958, and shared more than four decades together until Mike’s passing on May 8, 1999.

In 1973, Eleanor, Mike, and their three children moved from Livonia to Traverse City as part of Mike’s career with Michigan Bell Telephone, beginning a new chapter for the family in Northern Michigan. Eleanor embraced Traverse City and made it her home for the rest of her life. In time, all three of their children and their spouses also found their way back to the area.

A devoted homemaker, Eleanor, found her greatest joy in the people she loved. She cherished time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and was happiest when surrounded by family. Eleanor and Mike also shared a love of travel and adventure. During their early retirement years, they traveled throughout the continental United States and visited Alaska, Hawaii, and Europe. Their journeys brought them many cherished experiences and lasting memories.

In later years, Eleanor lived in her home in Leelanau County, at Orchard Creek Senior Apartments, and finally in independent living at Autumn House in Williamsburg. Through each transition, she continued to enjoy getting out and about with family and friends, as well as celebrating family events, birthdays, and holidays. Among her favorite outings were occasional trips to the casino, where she enjoyed playing her favorite slot machines.

Eleanor is survived by her brother, Arthur (Marjorie); her three children, Michael (Kathleen), Judith (Daniel), and Susann (Jon); six grandchildren, Steven, Ashley (Douglas), Michael, Christina, Kelsi, and Colin; and two great-grandchildren, Bennett and Stella.

Eleanor will be remembered for the warmth she brought to her family, her independent spirit, her love of travel and adventure, and the joy she found in life’s simple pleasures. Her greatest legacy is the family she cherished so deeply and the countless memories she created with those she loved. Though she will be dearly missed, her love will remain a lasting part of the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Munson Hospice House for the compassionate care and support they provided, helping to make Eleanor’s last days comfortable and peaceful.

In accordance with Eleanor’s wishes, her family will honor her life with a private memorial service. Her burial will be in Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens next to her late husband, Ewart “Mike” Reid. Her memory will live on in the stories shared, the traditions continued, and the love that connects her family across generations.