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Franklin Earl Reed Sr.

Aug. 15, 1960 – Nov. 5, 2025

Franklin Earl Reed Sr., 65, of Altoona, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Altoona, he was the son of the late Franklin Eugene Reed Sr. and Janet Louise Reed.

Frank graduated from Altoona Area High School and Vo-Tech, where he studied welding.

As a young man, he began his career helping in the X-Ray Department at Altoona Hospital. He later became a skilled welder, working for F.L. Smithe Machine Co. Inc., Altoona Pipe and Steel, and Union Tank Car Co., where he advanced from welder to inspector and eventually supervisor. His dedication, craftsmanship and strong work ethic earned him the respect of everyone who worked alongside him.

Frank was known for his kind heart, generosity and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures. He especially loved taking his family and grandkids on camping vacations, spending time outdoors and cooking delicious home-cooked meals for those he cared for most.

He will be remembered for his love of family gatherings, fishing, boating, playing guitar and for the warmth and laughter he brought to every occasion. Frank's life was filled with love, laughter and devotion to those closest to him.

He is survived by his daughter, Charity Dawn Reed; his son, Franklin Reed Jr. and fiancee, Krystle Cruthers; and his beloved grandchildren, Jersey Hollabaugh and Layla Reed. He is also survived by his sisters, Amy Reed and Lori Reed; brothers, Mark Reed and Randy Reed; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Dave Reed.

Frank will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his compassion, humor and the love he shared so freely.

A memorial service will be held at noon Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, at Sorge Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., Hollidaysburg.

Private interment at Grandview Cemetery.

sorgefuneralhome.com

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