It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Dee Rees, Sr. who departed this world on September 23, 2023, at the age of 81. After a long battle with declining health over the past four years, he has found peace and relief from suffering.

Jeff, born in Anderson, Indiana was the second child of Gerald and Helen Rees (both deceased) and grew up in a lively household with six siblings. He began his journey with a strong and determined spirit that would carry him through many adventures and challenges.

In his early years, Jeff met his first wife Pat Bratlinger, with whom he had three beautiful daughters: Tara Lynn Rees, Laura Rees-Lambert, and Tracy Rees.

Jeff served his country in the United States Army. Following service, he embarked on a career as a long-haul truck driver, traveling the open roads and gaining a deep appreciation for the beauty of this vast country.

In the early 1980s, Jeff decided that the Midwest’s harsh winters were too much to live with and he moved to Redding with his second wife of 24 years, Donna Rigdon-Rees, and their four children: Suzanne Rees-Tibbles, Cari Rees-Drolet, Jeffrey Rees, Jr. and Joseph Rees (deceased).

Though he loved the great outdoors, fishing being his greatest passion, Redding’s sweltering heat eventually prompted him to seek a more temperate climate. In 1985, Jeff and his family moved to Humboldt County, Eureka, which he would call home for the rest of his days. Fishing at the North or South Jetty was a source of immense joy to him, offering moments of tranquility and connection to nature.

Aside from his love for the outdoors, Jeff had a deep appreciation for music, with Elvis Presley standing as his all-time favorite artist. He was also a talented cook who took pleasure in experimenting with recipes and creating mouthwatering dishes from various cuisines, including all-American favorites, and Italian, Mexican, and Asian delicacies. One of his absolute favorite things to do was to BBQ in the backyard or at the park with family.

Jeff lived his life with a free spirit and his own special way of looking at the world. He was a man who marched to the beat of his own drum, embracing his individuality and making the most of every moment.

His sense of humor was like no other. He used to say your sense of humor will get you through this crazy life. He made us laugh with his jokes, dressing up in cowboy hats and taking crazy pictures, listening to the Grand Ole Opry records while singing and dancing and dragging his kids in the fun dancing with him. We can still hear the song, “Carol County Accident,” by Porter Wagner playing in the background while he was cooking one of his many creative dishes.

You couldn’t help but be drawn into his charisma. Dad was the life of the party and many people were drawn to him. His life journey like all of us was filled with many obstacles and challenges but he always persevered. He always tried and never gave up, something we all admired and a trait he passed on to his kids.

Jeffrey Dee Rees, Sr. is survived by his seven children: Tara Lynn Rees, Laura Rees-Lambert, Tracey Rees, Suzanne Rees-Tibbles, Cari Rees-Drolet, Jeffrey Rees, Jr. and Joseph Rees. He is also survived by his grandson, Tyler Tibbles, and granddaughter, Taylor Tibbles

As we remember the life of Jeffrey Dee Rees, Sr., we find solace in the knowledge that he has found eternal peace, free from pain and suffering. His memory will forever be etched in our lives. Jeff leaves behind a family bound by love and a legacy of a life lived on his terms. His favorite Elvis Presley song lyric was, “I did it My Way!” Indeed you did, Dad.

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