Obituary of Dr. Nathan Parker Reed

Delmar - Nathan Parker Reed

Dr. Nathan Parker Reed, 86, of Delmar, NY passed away peacefully on January 27, 2023. He was born on August 11, 1936 in Boston, MA to Burgess and Priscilla Reed. He grew up in Walpole MA and spent summers on the shores in Scituate MA, making lasting memories with siblings and cousins. He graduated from The Choate School ‘55, with pre-med studies from Harvard College ‘59, earned his medical degree at the Albany Medical College ’63,  and completed a general surgery residency at Albany Medical Center in 1969. He served as a Major in the US Army at Fort Ord in Monterey California from 1969-1971. Nathan and his family moved to Delmar NY in 1971 and began his career in private practice for general surgery lasting 35 years. He was a long time member and President of the Albany County Medical Society and a member of the American College of Surgeons. Nathan enjoyed mentoring surgical residents while practicing at St. Peter’s Hospital. Upon retiring from surgery in 2005, Nathan became the full time Medical Director of the NYS Health Department Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) until retirement in 2017.

Nathan was a proud diehard Red Sox fan and got a kick out of the rival teasing banter from NY fans. He spent many enjoyable summers on his boat on Lake George and for decades he highly anticipated the two weeks he spent in Aruba. Family gatherings with his in-law siblings, grandchildren, nephews and nieces warmed his heart. He was always ready for a game of chess, Parcheesi, or cards, especially 7’s; he appreciated all who indulged him as they created endless laughs and memorable entertainment.  Beneath his serious exterior was a humorous cushy teddy bear with respectable dance moves. His granddogs will miss his sweet affection. Nathan’s combination of wisdom and wit made up his eclectic charm we are grateful to have known and loved.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Doris Herzog Reed, their children Scott Reed and Daniel Reed of Delmar NY, and Gretchen (Salvatore) Napoli of Foxboro MA,  He was an adored proud poppy to Alex and Hannah Reed, Nicholas, Maks and Leo Napoli.  He is also survived by his sister Sue Schmid (Joe) of Florida, and predeceased by his brother Burgess Reed (MaryLee). Dear cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews and close friends also survive him.

A Memorial Service to celebrate his life will take place at 11:00 am on March 18, 2023 at the First United Methodist Church, 428 Kenwood Ave. Delmar.  A private burial will take place at Bethlehem Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St Peter’s Foundation 315 S. Manning Blvd Albany, NY 12208