Covington, MI- Dennis D. Bess, age 79, resident of Covington, passed away on Thursday March 9, 2023 at the Michigan Veterans Home DJ Jacobetti in Marquette, while in the loving care of his family, nursing home staff, and Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice.

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 of 1962 until July of 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, niece-Nikki Bess, good friends- David Laturi, Alan Skytta, Dennis Deprey, and Michael Bess, along with numerous other distant relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers- Gardner and David Bess, sister- Patti Bess, and niece- Linda Kane.

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.