Obituary of Reginaldo Corcega Lusiak-Reyes

Reginaldo Corcega Lusiak-Reyes of Minneapolis, passed away on April 22, 2024, from a two-year journey with stage IV colon cancer. His loss has left deep grief and disbelief to all who knew him. 

A true citizen of the world, he designed a life that was rich, meaningful, and full of gratitude — rooted in authentic relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.

“Reggie,” as he was affectionately known, touched everyone with a commanding sense of hope and optimism. Guided by the motto “Setbacks are Comebacks,” he assured himself — and everyone around him — to make the most of every challenge, every day. And to always reward yourself with a treat to brighten the day. 

Born in Manilla, Philippines in 1971, he immigrated to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1975 at the age of 3; the first born of four, and the only son. He exhibited all of the trappings of an oldest child, mastering the English language through Sesame Street episodes, and taking charge of household duties, including cooking while his parents managed their respective day-and-night careers as surgeon and nurse. Later on, he attended St. Louis University High School where “Men for Others” became the foundational spiritual value for his lifetime of generosity. 

His professional life embraced countless projects and initiatives that left a mark on the design community. Upon graduation from Kansas State University, he worked for Hallmark in Kansas City. From there, he moved to Minneapolis and began a 17-year career at Dayton’s and Marshall Fields’ Department Stores, and eventually Target Corporation. Notable projects during this time included architectural store designs, in-store experiences, a long-standing partnership with Heart of America doing nationwide library makeovers, a patent for a chair design in Target Café, and the exhibit design of the famed Musical Instrument Museum in Scottsdale, AZ, in collaboration with Founder Bob Ulrich, former CEO of Target. From there he went to creative agency KNOCK, as VP Brand Experience and Environment Design — inspiring clients with exhibitions, in-store experiences, and community events. For 9 years, his collaborators revered him as a true serving leader, empowering creativity at every step of the process.

Reggie was active on a number of Boards, including Theater Mu, The Mall of America Community Commons, and Art Buddies. Ever the teacher and sharer of knowledge, he was advisor and adjunct professor at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), and University of Minnesota’s College of Design and School of Architecture.

Beyond his amazing career, Reggie was a “man about town” enlightening his vast network of friends with the latest restaurants and fashionable retail stores, alongside exhibits, arts, and entertainment venues. His love of travel made him a go-to resource for planning itineraries — be it domestic or international. 

Partnered for 11 years, and united in marriage in 2021, Reggie is survived by his devoted husband, Jeffry Lusiak-Reyes. Other survivors include his mother, Jean (nee Corcega) Reyes; sisters, Laura (Paul Brown) Reyes Brown, and Jenice Reyes; goddaughter, Mariela “Ela” Brown; mother- and father-in-law, Karen and Lawrence Lusiak; sisters-in-law Andrea (Michael) Sheehy and Christy Lusiak (Brett DiNatale); nephews and nieces, Paul Brown Jr., Mark and Kaitlin Brown, John Brown, Zack Sheehy, Dorian and Damian DiNatale. He was an amazing uncle, kuya, cousin, and friend to many. Preceding him in death were his father, Dr. Nicomedes de Villa; and sister, Mariel “Cindy” Reyes. 

Two events are planned to honor Reggie:

Memorial Mass in St. Louis on June 1, at The Immacolata Catholic Church in Clayton, MO at 10am. The link to livestream this service: https://youtube.com/live/TDO4dQ-psZ8

Celebration of Life in Minneapolis at Lakewood Memorial Chapel on June 8, at 1:30pm. The link to livestream this service: https://vimeo.com/event/4328047

Memorials preferred to: Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Donations online to the Reginaldo Lusiak - Reyes Scholarship Fund. Or mail to: MCAD, Institutional Advancement, 2501 Stevens Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55404. Contributions are tax-deductible. Donations to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance are also appreciated.

From a recent bio:

“Having a beautiful and meaningful life is important to me, and this means ensuring that there is purpose in how I live, being continually present, having gratitude every day, and surrounding myself with people and communities who push me to be my best.”

Thank you, Reggie, for 52 inspiring years. Peace and love.