Dr. H. Reid Wagstaff attended Principia College in Elsah, Illinois, then transferred to the University of Michigan where he earned an undergraduate degree in geography.

After service in the U.S. Air Force as an aerial photo interpreter, he returned to Michigan to obtain a master's degree and PhD in economic geography.

Reid was a professor for 14 years at Eastern Michigan University and Arizona State University, where he taught a wide range of courses.

In 1976 he started a career in the food industry with The J.M. Smucker Company, working as Director of Fruit Procurement in Salinas, California, and eventually as Vice President, Government and Environmental Affairs.

Reid served on the boards of many organizations such as the American Frozen Food Institute, the California Strawberry Commission, Monterey County Business Council, Yosemite National Institute, International Jelly and Preserve Association, Second Harvest, and the Dean's Advisory Council, School of Art and Design, at the University of Michigan.

Reid also chaired the Environmental Committee of the Grocery Manufacturer's Association. He served for 22 years as a trustee of Longyear Museum in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.

Reid is survived by his three children; a daughter-in-law; three sons-in-law; nine grandchildren; a sister; three brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law. He is also survived by four nieces, two nephews, and cousins.