IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Robert James

Robert James Reder Profile Photo

Reder

d. Feb 24, 2026

Obituary

Robert James Reder, 82, of Stevenson MD, passed away on 2/24/26 at home, surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters. An extremely challenging bypass surgery in 2023 led to multiple complications over the past 3 years, which eroded his quality of life and could not be overcome. Born in New York, Bob was the son of Alice (Walsh) and Robert August Reder. He grew up in Manhasset on Long Island. His German - Irish heritage was evidenced by the twinkle in his blue eyes and warm, ready smile. His endless banter and contagious laugh, as well as a strong work ethic, truly defined his personality. In 1976, he took an opportunity to take over a family business, the R.M. Horsey Co., and the family moved to Maryland. The company flourished under his leadership for 48 years. He would forever refer to himself as a New Yorker despite living out the greater part of his life in Stevenson. Maryland was "provincial," but he learned to deeply appreciate the mystique of the Chesapeake Bay and his sanctuary on Burnside Farm, where neighbors grew to be family. Bob's educational pursuits led him to Washington, D.C. where he attended Georgetown University. Stories of mischief from his alma mater were often recounted. Among his favorites was the time he hid beer in his dorm room by hanging it in a bag out the window. He went home for a winter break and suddenly remembered his ploy. Fearful that he would be discovered by an observant Jesuit, he hopped on a train back to D.C., recovered the contraband, and returned the same day. His everlasting affection for his college years was largely due to his treasured friends and bride to be, Anne. After ROTC in college, Bob served as a Captain in the United States Army. He was stationed in Europe… initially in Fontainebleau, France and ultimately in Stuttgart, Germany. It was here that he developed a passion for German beer, cars, and a bug for travel. Countless German steins and brewery coasters managed to find their way back to the US as well as the storied train garden, dotted with Bavarian villages, that made Christmas so magical. Those special years offered Bob and Anne a wonderful opportunity for countless excursions. He was often nostalgic for Europe. His passion for adventure and love of nature inspired Bob and Annes' treks to many corners of the world including China, Africa, Europe, Scotland, Ireland, the Galapagos, Egypt, Hawaii, Thailand, Cambodia, Australia and Iceland. As soon as they returned from one trip, he'd be planning the next. Camping and hiking in Maine defined family vacations for many years. Travel allowed him to develop an ardent interest in photography. He would unexpectedly stop the car or disappear without warning…and the family would know to just settle down and wait patiently…for he was off pursuing the perfect "photo op." As a small boy, he developed a love of trains, planes and a particular affinity for CARS. Eventually he acquired the second passion in his life, his silver 2007 Porsche Carrera. The jury is still out as to whether he had more affection for the 911 or his family, but alas, they were happy to share him with the signature rumble of the flat six boxer engine, especially when he would flash them his giddy smile. An enthusiastic consumer of information, he was always in pursuit of books and articles about current events, world politics, or the government spending too much money. He could often be found nestled close to his piles of New York Times, and later, back copies of the Economist. When Anne would threaten to throw them out, he would lament about an article that he "might miss." He would never trade the opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversation or pick the brain of a willing participant. Later in life Bob found yet another favorite pastime, "golfie." His devotion to the game and his golf buddies was religious. He walked the course and played year round when he could. He assumed organization of "The Langer Cup", an annual golf outing with his lifelong college friends. Opportunities to play in Ireland, Hawaii and Pebble Beach were the thrill of a lifetime. He could also lose hours tinkering in his beloved garage. It was crammed with tools, gadgets, dry roasted peanut shells and countless saved items for his many DIY projects. "Bobbette" was finally graced with some boy energy in his house with the birth of his two grandsons whom he adored, and they him. Grandpa "Toot" loved to take them golfing, race remote cars, and proudly show their ski racing videos from New Hampshire to all of his friends. He will be remembered for his infectious smile, his warmth, kindness and sense of humor…his keen mind, a passion for living life to the fullest, and his love of chocolate. Even during the most difficult of times during the past 3 years, his sense of humor always got the family through. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Anne (Parlett) Reder, his daughters Genevieve Warfield Holland and her husband Robert Cades Holland of Hopkinton, NH, Sarah Walsh Reder of Asheville, NC, Anne Elizabeth Reder and her fiance Thomas Andrew Cosby of Jackson, WY, and his grandchildren Peter White Holland and Wyatt James Warfield Holland…all of whom will miss him beyond words. A memorial service is being planned for late summer…date TBA. In the meantime, raise a stein and drink to Bob…he's on a path around a bend just ahead of us…back in his Porsche after 18 holes. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Maine Coastal Mountains Land Trust… coastalmountains.org. .

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