Richard M. 'Dick' Dees

  BILLINGS — Richard M. “Dick” Dees, 89, of Billings, passed away on June 15, 2013, at Billings Clinic.

Dick was born on the family farm in Kremlin, on March 17, 1924, the son of Andrew and Dorthea Dees. He was raised and educated in Kremlin, graduating from high school in 1942. 

Dick worked on the family farm until he married Lois Swanton in 1948. They lived in various places until settling in Billings to raise their family of three children: Barbara, Dick and Andy. Richard worked with the Yellow Pages selling advertisements, a career he enjoyed for 30 years until retiring in 1987. Following retirement, Dick pursued his hobby of woodcarving. His talent became a passion. He carved statues of famous people, folk figurines and various detailed decorative wood carvings. His most notable statue was a wood carving of George Burns, which he presented to George, who replied with a wonderful letter of appreciation. Although his passion was woodcarving, he also enjoyed puttering around the yard, fixing things needing to be fixed, watching “Bonanza” and “Gunsmoke,” and ironing, anything.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lois, who passed away in 1991; and six siblings

Dick is survived by his children, Barbara Hopper, Dick Dees, and Andy (Tammy) Dees, all of Billings; grandchildren, Stacey (Brian) Lagreca, Justin Dees and Jeff Dees; great-grandchildren Sydney Cerovski, Cassie (Chris) Lagreca and Brice Lagreca; and his brother Donald (Rita) Dees.

Private family services will take place.

Donations, in Dick’s name, may be made to Rocky Mountain Hospice or charity of one’s choice.

Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary of Billings is assisting with arrangements and remembrances may be shared with the family at http://www.michelottisawyers.com.