Aaron Bean: “Today I rise to honor the life and memory of Commissioner Dale Dees from my hometown of Fernandina Beach, Florida. Mr.…”

“Today I rise to honor the life and memory of Commissioner Dale Dees from my hometown of Fernandina Beach, Florida. Mr. Dees reminds me of an Alan Jackson country song, ``Small Town Southern Man.'' He was always proud of what he had, and he was raised on the ways of gentle kindness. Mr. Dees was a lifelong resident of Fernandina Beach. He came from humble beginnings, and yet he was a man of great influence. His sincerity made everyone feel special. As a young man, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving Uncle Sam. Once he completed his tour of duty, he devoted himself to his family's dry cleaner business and revolutionized dry cleaning in Fernandina Beach by opening a drive-through option. Eventually, he would open the town's first gun shop. He was a self-made businessman, and he understood the value of hard work. His pride and joy was his family. Sharon was his beloved wife of 62 years and was his soulmate. Together they were blessed with two children, Mike and Michelle; son-in-law Shawn; two grandchildren, and great-grandson Kamden. Dale exemplified the meaning of leadership, and he saw public service as a duty. He served two terms as commissioner for Fernandina Beach and strived to make a difference in the lives of everyone in the city. Fernandina Beach has lost a pillar of its community. Dale will be dearly missed, and our condolences are with his family. He truly was a small town Southern man. ____________________”