Norene Reich passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on June 2, 2020, at her West Seattle home at The Kenney. A devoted and loving daughter, aunt, mother, and grandmother, Norene was beloved by all who knew her. She was known for her sunny, positive outlook on life, her devotion to family and friends, and her terrific wit.

A child of the great depression, she saw life’s challenges merely as obstacles to be overcome through one’s positive attitude and sense of humor. Undeterred by the recent pandemic, she kept the family laughing and smiling during their weekly video calls. Norene was born in Nanaimo, Canada on September 20, 1924, to the late Daniel and Diana (Maughan) Buchanan. The family moved to West Seattle when she was a young girl and her childhood was spent exploring Lincoln Park and Alki Beach, and swimming in Coleman Pool. After graduating from West Seattle High School in 1942, Norene traveled around the U.S extensively by car, train and ship and worked as a secretary for the Boeing Company.

Norene married Raymond Reich in 1959 and they moved to Vashon Island to raise their two boys Kenneth and David, and nephew Daniel Buchanan after the passing of his mother. Norene and Raymond built a beautiful home and workshop from bare land and filled it with flowers, fruit trees and a large garden. The boys remember growing up in an island paradise, with long summer days spent at the beach or exploring the island by bicycle. Norene spent her later years in her beautiful West Seattle home tending her flower garden, spending time with her grandchildren, and traveling to Ireland, Italy and Australia. Pre-deceased by her ex-husband Raymond and brother Raymond, she is survived by her children Kenneth Reich (Katy Rice), David Reich (Miki Oh) and beloved grandchildren Nathan, Audrey, Denis and Evan. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at The Kenney, who treated Norene like family. A celebration of Norene’s life will be held this summer as public health restrictions will allow.