Reg Lathim

Fourth-generation Santa Barbaran Reg Lathim passed peacefully at his home, at the age of 86, with his two children Kim Lippincott and Rod Lathim on June 23rd, 2017. His family and friends knew him to be a stellar example of generosity, compassion and selfless concern for others. He was loved by many, but had no role more important to him than that of a husband to Kathleen Vance Manwill Lathim, who passed in 2007, father to Kim and Rod, grandfather to Mariah and Brandon Lippincott and adopted father to so many people who knew they could count on him for love and support through his lifetime.

He was a proud SBHS Don in the class of 1948, where he met his wife Kathy, then went to Westminster College in Utah. He lost both his older brother Albert Lathim and his mother Thelma Stevens Lathim at an early age. As a respected businessman he carried on the family company, Lathim’s Transfer which became Lyon Moving and Storage, from his father Ray Lathim. He retired from Lyons and joined the team of Pitts and Bachmann Realtors, due to his close friendship with David Pitts. His reputation for being a man of the highest integrity was known throughout the community.

Reg served in the US Navy as Seaman First Class which afforded him the opportunity to see many parts of the world. He married Kathy in 1951 and they designed and built their home on Eucalyptus Hill which became “Family Central” for their family and friends. They both passed in this home which they loved. He was the kind of Dad most people would dream of having. He was an ideal role model and mentor to many. His unconditional love and willingness to pitch in and help his family in any effort or cause was infectious.

Reg was active in the Lions Club and loved volunteering in the community. He served on the Board of Access Theatre and helped with productions, fund-raising, benefit events, set building and hosting artists. He loved helping out at Paradise Pit every year scooping ice cream for the AIDS Lifecycle Ride, and delivering flowers for the Flower Empower program founded by family friend Thomas Rollerson. His very close Eucalyptus Hill neighborhood friends enjoyed regular visits from Reg, who shared flowers, vegetables and caring. Reg was deeply interested in Santa Barbara history and was a walking encyclopedia of information.

During the last decade of his life, after Kathy’s passing, he enjoyed seeing the world with his dear friend Sidonia Slaff, with whom he shared a loving relationship. He remained active until he sustained serious injuries from a fall in his yard, a month prior to his passing. He lived a full and wonderful life and his legacy will live on.

The family is most grateful to the tremendous support from Visiting Nurses and Hospice Care (VNHC), and from dear friends. In lieu of flowers, please support VNHC in Reg’s memory. A small, private family gathering will be held.