Dennis D. Bess

Dennis was born in Ishpeming, MI on January 21, 1944, son of the late Gardner and Violet (Smith) Bess. He grew up in Ishpeming, and attended Ishpeming High School graduating with the class of 1962. Following graduation, he served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam war period from July 1962 until July 1966. Upon his honorable discharge, Dennis returned home to the UP. He worked as a welder in Green Bay, WI, mined for copper at the White Pine Mine, and worked in the woods with local logging firms.

Dennis was an avid fast pitch softball player where he excelled at pitching. He loved to hunt deer, rabbit, and birds, go fishing, cut wood, and spend as much of his time in the great outdoors. The woods was truly his church. Dennis developed a passion for golf and was a member of the L’Anse Golf Club where he enjoyed meeting new friends.

Dennis is survived by his best buddy, Debra Lepola, daughter Cheryl Bess, grandson Ryan Dishno-Bess, nephews Allan and Gardner Bess, nieces Linda Kane and Nikki Bess, good friends David Laturi, Alan Skytta, Dennis Deprey, Michael Bess, along with numerous other distant relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Gardner and David Bess, and sister Patti Bess.

Following Dennis’ wishes, cremation will take place with a private celebration of life to follow in the summer.

Dennis’ obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.