Evelyn Dees' Obituary
Evelyn Dees passed away Friday, December 30, 2016 at the age of 98. Born June 3, 1918 on a homestead near Box Elder, Montana, she was the second of four children of Edward and Bertha Formanack. She spent her childhood helping on the farm. She attended local schools and played basketball in high school, with fond memories of playing in the state championships and winning!
Evelyn married Alvin Dees from nearby Kremlin, Montana in September 1937, moving to the northwest during the war. Evelyn was an active member of Hope Lutheran Church, participating in women’s circles, altar guild, and teaching Sunday School for many years. She was also very active in the PTA at Arlington Elementary, Gray Junior High and Mount Tahoma High School, making friendships that lasted throughout her life.
Evelyn loved to gather with friends for birthday luncheons or to play Canasta. After Alvin retired she enjoyed planning many trips, including to several European countries, Israel, and Hawaii. They also took many driving trips in the US in addition to annual vacations to visit family in Montana.
Evelyn is preceded in death by her husband Alvin and all of her siblings. She is survived by her daughter LaVerne (George) Gonzales, son Bruce (Virginia) Dees, granddaughters Lauren Dees, Erin (Riley) Meinershagen, and her first great-grandchild on the way.
A special thank you to the staff at Rainier Vista Rehab for their compassionate and loving care.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Tacoma Rescue Mission or the Boys and Girls Club of South Puget Sound.
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