Ralph Alex Reeve Jr., a decorated Vietnam Combat Veteran, longtime Bishop resident, and dedicated local business owner, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2026, at the age of 77. Reeve was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing. A service to celebrate his life is scheduled for October 15, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Calvary Baptist, followed by a celebration of life and food at the VFW from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Born on January 18, 1949, in Bend, Oregon, Ralph Reeve Jr. lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and a generous spirit that touched many in the community. He was the cherished son of Ralph Sr. and Louella Reeve, and grew up with his sisters Judy Lindig and Cheryl Craun. He was preceded in death by his sisters Carol Ann and Janet Kay, his parents, and his grandson Austen Desousa.
Reeve was a proud graduate of Bishop Union High School, where he was known for his athletic achievements and his fondness for cool cars. His commitment to service led him to honorably serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, earning distinction as a decorated combat veteran.
His extensive and varied career began early, working alongside his father as a butcher and delivering meat across a wide region from Los Angeles County to Mono County. Reeve’s strong work ethic also saw him as a ranch hand on the Reeve Family Ranches located throughout the Owens Valley and Swall Meadows. After returning from Vietnam, he continued his work in agriculture, raising livestock and his children on the Reeve Ranch in Round Valley, while also working at Union Carbide.
Ralph Reeve Jr. was married to Linda Kothman on January 10, 1970, and together they had three children. After their divorce in 1983, he moved to Southern California to focus on raising his children. He returned to Bishop in 1990 to take over the family business, transforming Ralph Reeve Pump Service into Reeve Drilling and Ralph Reeve Pump and Well Service Inc. Under his leadership, the company served Inyo and Mono Counties with reliability and dedication for over 30 years, providing significant opportunities for generations of his family and local residents.
Beyond his professional life, Reeve dedicated his life to Christ, attending Grace Lutheran and Calvary Chapel of Bishop. He later met Linda Majors, and they were married on October 3, 1998, embarking on a new chapter together. He found great joy and solace in the outdoors, spending his free time camping, fishing, hunting, and shooting with his grandchildren. Reeve was also known for his hospitality, frequently hosting dinner and holiday parties that brought together family and friends, showcasing his generous spirit.
Reeve is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Reeve; his children Ami Baker and her husband Ken, Jody Desousa, and Clint Reeve. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Alex, Craig, Shayla, Austen, Dakota, Catarino, and Stevie, and an adored great-grandfather to eleven great-grandchildren. His charismatic personality and “happy-go-lucky” attitude endeared him to many. He was consistently described as a man of kindness and generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand, often coupled with a delightful humor expressed through his candid words. His smile and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone he met. The family expressed heartfelt gratitude to all of Ralph’s friends for their support, particularly noting Steve Wilson, his lifelong best friend, who served as a trusted advisor and was considered more of a brother. Ralph Alex Reeve Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion that will continue to inspire his family and be dearly missed by the community.