Harold H. Reder

TOPSHAM — Harold Harris Reder, 99, of Topsham, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2010, with his family by his side.

He was born in Jersey City, N.J., on Aug. 18, 1911, one of five sons to Morris and Annette (LeBeau) Reder. He spent most of his early childhood in New Jersey before moving to Massachusetts in his high school years. He graduated in 1937 from Harvard College. He enlisted in the United States Navy soon after college, and honorably served during World War II.

He married his soul mate Verna May Lewis in 1941 and they settled in Massachusetts to raise a family. In 1939, Harold opened the first of and soon to be a chain of nine Reder Restaurant’s in New York, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. In 1978, the family moved to Westbrook and he established the Maine Armored Car and Courier Service, what is now known as Brinks.

Harold was an avid fisherman and could be found on the water when ever he had the time. He was also a very loyal fan of the Red Sox. Harold was a 33rd degree Mason and a member of the Shriners.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Verna; three brothers, Leonard, Edwin and his twin Charles.

Harold is survived by his two sons, Alan Reder of Topsham and Jonathan Reder of Raymond; a granddaughter; and a brother, Jason Reder of Block Island, R.I.

A graveside service will be held on Oct. 26, 2010, at the Eastlawn Cemetery, Williamstown, Mass., where services will be held for both Harold and his twin brother Charles, who died in April 2010. If you would like to share your thoughts and condolences to Harold’s family please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com