Gordon Reed, 79, passed away on March 25, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. Born on January 20, 1946, in Hailey, Idaho, Gordon lived a life marked by perseverance, commitment to family, and a deep yearning for adventure.
Growing up in Hailey, Gordon developed a love for the outdoors and learned to ski in nearby Sun Valley. He spent countless hours exploring the Wood River Valley, cultivating an enduring appreciation for its rugged beauty. Later, his family relocated to Boise, where he graduated with the Class of 1964 from Borah High School. Determined to build a hands-on career, Gordon attended Heavy Equipment School and became a certified diesel mechanic.
Gordon's professional journey began behind the wheel of logging trucks for Weyerhaeuser in North Bend, Washington. His mechanical skills soon led him to work as a diesel mechanic for Mack Trucks in Boise, Idaho. However, it was on the open road that Gordon found his true calling. As a long-haul truck driver, he logged over three million miles across all 50 states—a testament to his dedication and passion for life on the road.
His love for engines extended beyond his career. Gordon was an avid motor sports enthusiast from a young age. He raced dirt bikes and later enjoyed motorcycles, ATV trail riding and snowmobiling, often exploring Idaho's backcountry with various clubs that he was involved in. His mechanical talents were evident in his hobbies as well—he spent countless hours building models and restoring classic cars with precision and care. He especially loved showing off his '63 Chevy Nova at many local car shows. In later years, he embraced RVing as another way to explore the country he had come to know so intimately.
Gordon's greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his wife, Judy Reed; his children: son Joseph Reed and daughter Juanita Aaby (Chris); and stepsons Kenneth Angwin (Kari), Richard Angwin, and James Angwin. He was a beloved grandfather to Samantha Anderson (Ryan), Travis Angwin (Brittany), Tanner Angwin, Shayne Angwin, Brett Angwin, Jaden Aaby, Brenna Angwin, Corey Aaby, Brandon Angwin, and Raul Chavez. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Mikayla and Matthew Angwin and Eleanor and Gordon Anderson. He is also remembered by his half-sister Kelli Outwater.
Gordon was preceded in death by his mother Juanita "Neeter" Smith; Father Gordon Reed; and half-sister Kerri Swanson.
A man of grit and heart who found joy in horsepower—whether under the hood or on two wheels—Gordon will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him and inspiration to those who admired the roads he traveled.
Honoring his wishes, no service will be held. Gordon made the world a better place for us, and now the road is forever rising before him.