David Lee Bess

David Lee Bess passed away peacefully from a sudden stroke on November 6, 2023 in Provo, Utah at the age of 72.  He was born in Roosevelt, Utah on January 5, 1951 to John William Bess and Ramona Bacon Bess. He was a much beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend who touched many lives through his kind and giving nature and unending service to others. To anyone who knew him he was gruff on the outside and a marshmallow on the inside. He was always there for anyone who needed him.

He married the love of his life and soulmate, Debra Ann Slaughter (Bess), on December 11, 1970. They were married for almost 53 years.  The love that they shared and the life that they lived was the envy of any person who they came in contact with.  Dave and Debbie had two beautiful daughters and two granddaughters and two grandsons. He made sure that they grew up knowing that he loved and cherished them no matter what.  His goal in life was to spoil his grandchildren with their every need.

He joined the Navy in 1971-1974 and served with honor. He was stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii for three years during the end of the Vietnam War. He moved his family back to Utah, where he supported his family by becoming a Plumber & Heating/Contractor for 47 years.

He was blessed to come from a close and loving family that spent many happy times together hunting, fishing, and camping. He loved all his brothers, sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews. He was known for his teasing nature and always having a funny nick name for the people he loved. He was a true “Bess” who loved God, Family, and Country.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie, daughters, Stephanie (Sean) Blake, Wendy (James Skradski) Bess, Grandchildren, Jaymee Allen, Quinton Allen, Breanna Blake, Jaxton Skradski. Brother John H. (Kathy) Bess, and Sister-in-law Connie Bess, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on November 26, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. at the Indian Ridge Lodge in Indianola, Utah.  6782 E. Indian Ridge Drive, Fairview, UT 84629.