Dess W. Tibbitts

Services are scheduled for 11 a.m., Wednesdsay, at F.D. Sweet and Son, 825 A St., Orland for Dess Tibbitts who died on June 27, 2008, in Paradise.

Dess was born May 9, 1918, outside Eagleville to Dess F. and Louise E. Tibbitts. He graduated from Orland High School and enlisted in the Army during World War II. He was the last mounted Calvary division and later earned two Purple Hearts while serving with the armor tank division during the D-Day invasion of the Normandy beaches. He married Rose Ethel Wilkins on August 3, 1946 in Sparks, Nev.

He was a California state brand inspector for 35 years before retiring in 1980. After retirement he worked cattle on many ranches in Northern California.

Survivors include his daughter, Donna Tibbitts, of Paradise; son Dess Tibbitts of Paradise; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Ethel, in 2003; brother Robert and sister Gloria.

In lieu of flowers or contributions may be made to the Orland Fire Department, Paradise Hospice or a charity of choice. Arrangements are under the direction of F.D. Sweet and Son Mortuary, Orland.