Here’s a look at Reich’s life and sudden death:
Howard A. Reich
Reich, of Lindenhurst, passed away on September 14. He was 55.
He was struck and killed by a car while attempting to cross Route 109, near the Route 110 overpass, in East Farmingdale that night, Suffolk Police said.
The driver of the car, which was rented, was issued a summons for driving with a suspended license, police said, and the car was impounded for a routine safety check.
Police said Reich died at the scene.
Reich, known as Howie, was the younger brother of Lindenhurst Rotary Club President Jacqueline (Jackie) Milton, of Lindenhurst, and of Valerie Kneller, who lives in Minnesota.
He’s also survived by his girlfriend Robyn Lombardo, of North Lindenhurst.
He was the son of the late Howard and Violet Reich of Lindenhurst.
According to Jackie Milton, he’s also survived by two nieces and four nephews, plus four great nieces and nephews.
Reich went to Lindenhurst Schools, and graduated in 1975, going onto to Brockport College.
He was an all-star athlete in high school, playing baseball and basketball, noted Milton.
“Many of the kids he graduated with saw the post on Patch, and sent condolences and came to the wake, even though they hadn’t seen him in years,” Milton wrote in an e-mail to Lindenhurst Patch about her brother.
Visitation and religious services were held on September 18, and cremation was private.
“Everyone said the same thing about him, that he ‘had a big heart,’” she said.
“The family would like to thank everyone for their love, support and condolences during these extremely difficult times,” wrote Milton, whose daughter is getting married in approximately five weeks.
“We know in our hearts he’s in a better place with our parents, family and friends, and, of course, his best friend, his dog Blackjack.”
Milton said the family’s hoping as the police investigation continues it’ll find out exactly what happened to cause this.
“There are too many questions and no answers at this point. The police are still looking for someone who might’ve witnessed the accident,” Milton said.
Information was provided by the Lindenhurst Funeral Home and Jackie Milton, who also provided the photos.
Original story, where many residents and friends left condolences:
- Lindenhurst Man Fatally Struck by Car
