Donald “Hoss” Dees, passed away March 21, 2015 surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on March 19, 1942 in Berkley, California.  He was the oldest son of the late Lloyd and Faye Dees and was predeceased by his brother Richard. 

Don joined the U.S. Navy in 1959 and served aboard the USS Carpenter DD 825 destroyer out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.  His ship was with the fleet called to the Blockade of Cuba by President Kennedy.

After an honorable discharge he moved to New England where he met and married his wife of 41 years and raised his family.

Some of his favorite things to do were taking his wife and going riding on his Harley. They would spend many enjoyable hours riding with friends and family.  He spent hours of quality time fishing with “Lil Bro Donny”.

He is survived by his loving wife and soul mate, Mary “Rusty” Dees and his children, daughters: Cheri Buchanan, Trisha Healey-Robin and husband Rene, Jamie Dees and partner Craig Murphy, and Jennifer Dees and partner Kevin Driscoll. Sons: Thomas Healey and wife Kathleen, Michael Sean Healey and wife Lisa, and “adopted son” John Owen. 

He also leaves grandchildren: Matthew, Shauna and Ashara Healey, Sean Michael Healey and Steven Buchanan.  Great-Grandchildren: Rorrie and Liam Healey; Niece and nephews: Crystal, David and Daniel Dees.

He will sorely missed by best friends and “brothers” in life: Ross Bartoli, George Amirault, Peter Luedke and James “Gentleman Jim” Dunaway.

A Celebration of Life will be held, April 4th from 1-5 pm at the Salem/Derry Elks Club, 39 Shadow Lake Road, Salem, NH 03079.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.dewhirstfuneral.com or facebook.com/DewhirstFuneralHome

 Service Information