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1940
2018
Dale Allen Van Ness, Sr. was born November 21, 1940 and passed away January 9, 2018. "To be absent from the body is to be present to the Lord." 2 Corinthians 5:8.
He was born in Houston, TX, grew up in Galveston and graduated from Ball High. After high school he joined the Army and served 11 years in Heavy Artillery, did 3 tours in Vietnam and achieved 1st Sgt. before being Honorably Discharged. After coming home he joined the Houston Police Department where he served his city for 22 years. He thoroughly enjoyed working for the HPD and made many lifelong friends in the department. He was working for Builders Post-Tension when he retired. He enjoyed his work there and had many friends in the company, as well as the friends he made with many Houston builders.
Survived by his wife of almost 44 years Debbyann Van Ness, their son Dale Van Ness, Jr., wife Jennifer and granddaughter Annabella; predeceased by their daughter Hollyann Van Ness; his son Gene Van Ness, wife Karin and grandson Christian; his daughter Kerry Gooch and her children; sister-in-law Peggy Van Ness; brother Johnny Van Ness, wife Linda. Predeceased by his parents Fred and Lucille Van Ness; brother Royce Van Ness; sister Carolyn Newman. Dale had 5 grandchildren and 10 nieces/nephews.
We will remember Dale for his generous spirit, kindness and humor, as well as his love for family and friends. He will truly be missed.
Services will be held at Heights Funeral Home Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at 11 am, with visitation beginning at 9:30 am. After which we will meet at Woodlawn Cemetery, 1101 Antoine on I-10. The HPD Honor Guard will be present at both, honoring Dale for his service with the Police Dept as well as the US Army. In lieu of flowers, donations to MD Anderson Cancer & Research Center or Alzheimer's Disease Research would be greatly appreciated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Heights Funeral Home.
January 10, 2024
Family
Debby Van Ness
When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. It's been 6 years, you are loved and missed.
January 24, 2018
michael phillips
Dale is finally home. He will be missed my many of his family and friends. I pray for rest and comfort for Debby and the family.
January 17, 2018
Craig Garrett
What more can you say about Uncle Dale, a thoughtful, caring, and funny character who was always in a wonderful mood. Loved to joke and cut-up around the bbq pit, or in the fields hunting ducks. You will be very much missed sir, truly one of a kind.
January 16, 2018
Gretchen Hodge
Uncle Dale you were such a blessing to me. I will never forget your friendship and kindness towards me. Thank you for taking the time to always check on me and my girls. You will be missed but never forgotten. God Bless with love
January 16, 2018
Roger Dickson HPD (1970-05)
My thoughts and prayers are with the Van Ness family during this sad time. Please accept my sincere condolences and may God grant you strength in the days ahead.
January 16, 2018
Greg Tomlinson
Uncle Dale will be sorely missed. He was an honorable man. A good man who was a friend to all. I will miss him terribly. It was an honor and a pleasure to call him my friend.
January 14, 2018
Debby Van Ness (wife)
You left us too soon hun, it will never be the same without you. A caring husband and father who was devoted and protective of his family. A wonderful man who was truly loved. You will forever be in my heart. I miss you so much baby and I'll always remember your unconditional love. Thank you for a lifetime of memories. Hug and kiss our sweet Holly for me. RIP dear. Take a break and go fishing. You've earned it. ♥♥♥
January 14, 2018
Offering deepest heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your loved one. May your cherished memories shine through your sorrow. John 11: 33-44
January 12, 2018
Billie Jo Phillips
I am so sorry for your lost. You and your family are in my prayers.
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