Michael "Don" Dees, Sr., age 83, of Calera, Alabama died on Wednesday, May 3rd. He was preceded in death by both parents, William and Elise Dees, and siblings: Billy Dees, Alyce Munshower and Jerry Dees.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Myra Dees and his three children: Michael Dees Jr. and wife, Tonya, Sheila Dickerson and husband, Michael and Christy Perez and husband, Dan. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, Taylor Simmons and husband, Patrick, Garrett Dees, Jack Dickerson, Alexander Dickerson, and Owen Dickerson: and one great-grandson, Calvin Don Simmons.
Following Don’s 1958 graduation from Sylacauga High School, he enlisted in the Army and proudly served his country in Washington DC in intelligence. His civilian life began in Dallas followed by a career with ICG Railroad which took him to Birmingham, St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, and Chicago. During this time, he raised his family and engaged in his community. He finally retired to Calera, Alabama where he was close to grandchildren and other family.
Don loved wood working. He built beautiful, detailed bookshelves as well as a large deck on his home in Chicago. He loved refinishing furniture, restoring a 1966 Mustang with his son, watching Nascar races and Alabama football. He had a keen ability to take things apart, much to the frustration of his loving wife, and up until recently putting them back together. He loved his church friends and family as well as singing church hymns, even with a paralyzed vocal cord.
We will always remember Don as a sweet soul, who only wanted the best for others. He was a gentle, humorous, and loving man who was thankful for all the loving caregivers, he had over the last few years.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 6th at Columbiana Church of Christ with (20259 Hwy 25 Columbiana, AL 35051). Visitation starting at 2 pm and the service to follow at 3 pm.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Columbiana Church of Christ
