In loving memory of REED BRANDLEY HIRSCHE, who leaves to mourn his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one sister.

Reed was born September 27, 1927 to Clayton and Maurine Hirsche (née Brandley). He grew up in Wrentham on a farm and did all the things farm kids do. He was a great man; quick to learn but slow to speak.

He was mechanically inclined and he loved to take watches apart to see how they worked and put them back together again. As he got a little older, he started tinkering with motors. His first job was a ta a very young age, working in a garage in Taber. He was a hard worker and loved to keep busy. He often said, "If you are going to do something, do it good or don't do it at all."

He bought an acreage just west of Fort Macleod in which he was so proud of, and he loved his cattle, horses and later, his furry little friends. He also started up Hirsche's Backhoe Service for close to 25 years. He loved operating that backhoe! He did many jobs around the Fort Macleod area, and even worked on the Buffalo Jump while it was under construction. He enjoyed fishing and camping; he loved the outdoors and everything that God created.

In the early 2000's, Reed and Marion moved to a condo in Lethbridge. It was a big adjustment but was a good decision. He was on the condo board in the early years and made good use fo the pool tables! When the great-grandchildren came, he would tell them it was time to go to work now, grab his pool cue and was out the door.

There were many coffee get-togethers with friends at Dairy Queen and had friends over playing cards; his favourite game was "sticks". We were able to take on short trips to Montana, sometimes even for the day to go to the Black Angus and have steak and a piece of huckleberry pie! Together they took bus trips to Alaska, Queen Charlotte Islands, the Tar Sands, the Maritimes and a cruise to Alaska, which was a very memorable experience for him.

While he was at St. Michael's, we got to know Reed in a new way. He was so strong (and stubborn) and stayed feisty right to the end. He would give advice that he learned over the years. He often said, "Life is good; even when it's not good, it's still good." To be thankful, don't argue, forgive, love and be happy.

He appreciated and liked "his girls" from St. Michael's. Some of them had a very special bond with him. The family also thanks and appreciates those who were on Reed's care team. During Reed's stay at St. Michael's, his faith was strong and he showed so much strength, endurance and inner joy. He really taught us a lot about life and death. He fought a good fight with dignity and spunk! Our memories of him are beyond precious and will always live in our hearts.

He was loved by his children, as each one conveyed their thoughts and love in a special letter just for him the great-grandchildren showed their love with their drawings that decorated his room and brightened each day for him. He was loved by many and witnessed compassion and love with "his girls" at St. Michael's that came and said their goodbyes in their own special ways.

We love you Reed, and thank you for the life that was shared together.

On September 2, 2023, you went to your eternal home, where there is perfect peace, and joined with loved ones gone before him.

Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home. A private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (cancer.ca), Heart and Stroke Foundation (heartandstroke.ca) or a charity of one's choice.