Mr. Marion J. Dees, Jr., age 78, former resident of Vero Beach, FL. passed away Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, FL. Mr. Dees was born on Jan. 25, 1932 in Orlando, FL. to the late Marion J. (Sr.) and Cuthma Dees. He graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering and was hired by Lockheed where he worked on the Polaris Missile and the Lasa 60. He then became a Designated Engineering Representative for the FAA in Structures and worked on the C-130 Hercules still in production today. In about 1973 he joined Piper as VP of Engineering working in Lock Haven, PA, Lakeland, and Vero Beach, FL. His career would also include work with Sino Swearingen, Weber Aircraft, Safire Aircraft and Liberty Aircraft and was credited with involvement in 45 aircraft FAA certifications. Mr. Dees served his country honorably in the United States Air Force.
He is survived by his wife, Marie Dees, Gainesville, FL.; three sons, Mark Dees (Bonnie), Albuquerque, New Mexico, Ben Dees of North Carolina and David Dees (Jenny), Lubbock, TX.; one daughter, Peggy Dees-Moseley (Dan), Redmond, Washington; four step-children, Jimmy Campbell, Chattanooga, TN., Karen Esler, Portland, OR., Debbie Carter, Orlando, FL., and Billy Lister, Brandon, FL.; seven grandchildren, six step grandchildren and seven step great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Aug. 28th in the chapel of Harry T. Reid Funeral Home in Jasper, FL.

Interment followed at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery near Jennings, FL.

Memorial contributions may be made to Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd, Gainesville, FL. 32606.