Warren Douglas Reader, known to family and friends as Doug, passed away February 8th, 2025, at the age of 85.
Doug was born on September 24, 1939, in Rome NY to Warren and Charlotte “Betty” Reader. He was a lifelong resident of Rome, attending local schools and graduating from Rome Free Academy in 1957.
Doug was passionate about sports throughout his life. In his youth, he excelled in baseball and bowling. In fact, he excelled in every sport he pursued, but was especially known for his talent in bowling - He was the first person in Rome to maintain a bowling average of over 200. He was also proud to have been able to play baseball for Smith Post. He played third base on the team which won the 1955 state championship. He later gave back to his community, coaching youth baseball for many years at Lee Town Park. He also loved golf, having spent many happy hours on local courses with his many friends.
Doug was a dedicated and hardworking man. He began his working career working alongside his father at Reader and Beck Burial Vault in Rome, and after his Father’s passing continued the legacy by operating his own business, Utica Burial Vault. In addition to his work in the funeral industry, Doug owned and operated Mohawk Lanes for many years. He loved coaching and mentoring others, especially youth bowlers. His positive influence left a lasting impression – years later many of the young people who bowled at his alley would come up to him and share fond memories of the good times they had at Mohawk Lanes.
Doug’s life was centered around his family, especially his children and grandchildren, who were the greatest joy in his life. He cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, whether it was visiting them in Utah or welcoming them to his home in NY. When not together in person, he always looked forward to his Sunday 6 PM calls with them all. His steady presence, thoughtful conversations, and genuine love left an indelible mark on their lives.
Some of Doug’s favorite memories were made during his annual trips to Myrtle Beach with his sweetheart and wife, Sandy and their close friends John and Teri Petty. Each visit was filled with adventure, laughter and the simple joys of life. Doug looked forward to these trips each year, not just for the fun, but for the memories, the friendships and the happiness they brought him. Doug had a gift of connecting with people. He never missed the opportunity to strike up a conversation, whether with a lifelong friend or someone he’d just met. He was known for his kindness, his easy going nature, and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Doug genuinely cared about others, and it showed in the way he listened, encouraged, and made everyone around him feel valued.
Doug married Sandra Smith (Owens) in 2005 and together they built a loving life filled with family, friendship and cherished memories. He had previously been married to Judith Olnas. He is survived by his son, W. Douglas Reader, Jr (Jerrie) and their children, Warren (Ashlie) and their children, James, Mackenzie and Bridget. Stephen (Kristin) and their children Skylar, Colby and Luke. Meagan Huntsman (Trey) all currently residing in Utah. Another granddaughter, Hannah Reader, currently resides in Georgia. He also leaves behind his daughter, Wendy (Matt) Bonvicino of Rome.
Doug is also survived by his sister, Marilyn (Donald) Ball of Oneonta NY and their family.
Through his marriage to Sandy, Doug gained another beloved family. He is fondly remembered by Sandy’s sister, Jackie Roberts (Richard) and their children and grandchildren. Sandy’s brothers, Bruce Owens (Edna) and Al Owens (Carol) and their families.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents Warren and Betty Reader and twin grandsons, Isaac and Thomas Reader.
Calling hours will be held Friday, May 30th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Bottini Funeral Home, 120 West Embargo Street, Rome, NY. Family and friends are invited to attend. Doug’s life celebration service will be held the next day at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Doug’s memory to McConnellsville Community Church, PO Box 37, McConnellsville, NY 13401.
Doug was a great man - - a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a caring brother and a true friend to many. His warmth, generosity and steady presence touched countless lives. The world has lost one of its very best, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing him.