Obituary: Donald Theodore Dees

Donald Theodore Dees, 89, of Kremlin, passed away Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, at Northern Montana Care Center of natural causes.

At his request cremation has taken place and his memorial service will be held at a later date this summer when family can gather together. Memorials in Donald's honor may be made to the Kremlin Volunteer Fire Department, the Kremlin Lutheran Church, or the charity of the donor's choice.

Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements. Please visit Don's online memorial page and leave a message of condolence for his family at http://www.hollandbonine.com.

Donald was born on March 27, 1927 in Havre, to Andrew and Dorthea (Lee) Dees. He grew up on the family farm south of Kremlin and attended Kremlin High School, graduating in 1945. Following graduation, Don enlisted in the Navy, serving during the end of WWII as a yeoman. Don was very proud of his service. Upon returning home he met Rita Burfield, a Gildford girl, at a basketball game. Don and Rita were married Oct. 23, 1949. They raised their three daughters in Kremlin where they lived in the house that he built for his family.

Don was a wheat farmer, which he loved, but he was a wonderful woodworker as well and truly enjoyed being in his shop creating beautiful gifts for his family. He was a phenomenal carpenter, from building the family home to doll cradles for the grandchildren. He was meticulous in his details and enjoyed the quiet time working on these projects afforded him. Donald served his community as treasurer of the Kremlin Lutheran Church and was also involved in the Kremlin school board, Elks Club and Eagles Club. One could also be sure to find him at the lutefisk dinners that the Kremlin Commercial Club hosted.

Don was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Rita; parents, Andrew and Dorthea; and siblings, Alvin (Evelyn), Morris (Maxine), Ella (Howard) Hammond, Arnold (Joyce), Richard (Lois), Dorothy (George) Sanda and Norman (Mary).

He is survived by his daughters, Debbie (Conn) Hellebust and Lynn (Alvin) Gatzemeier, both of Havre, and Holly Liles of Brookings, South Dakota; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.