Dennis Lee

    HELPER- Dennis Venoy Lee was born September 9, 1943 at the Kenilworth Hospital to Albert “Bill” and Josephine Newberry Lee.  He passed away February 26, 2018 in Price, Utah.
    Dennis was a lifelong resident of Spring Glen, Utah.  He graduated from Carbon High School class of 1962.  Dennis hit the ground running.  He spent the 60’s at various positions with the D&RGW and Rio Grande Railroads before moving into the coal industry in various mines in Moab, Horse Canyon in East Carbon to Valley Camp in Scofield and everywhere in between.  He gained extensive knowledge and lifelong friends along the way.  Curious and hard headed there was never a job that before long was not mastered by him and always moving right to the top.  In 1976 Dennis met and married Debbie Davies of Carbonville.  They would have two children Billy and Amy before later divorcing.  A real testament to Dennis’ tenacious personality came in 1978 when at work as a foreman for Valley Camp Coal, he spotted an old man pushing coal on an even older cat dozer.  After conversation he found out the man worked for himself as a contractor.  Excited and sharing this with his beloved older brother Dale they decided to risk everything, quit their jobs and go for a contract of their own.  Before even having equipment, using their savings they purchased an old cat push dozer and began tearing up their mother’s back yard learning to use it.  Not long after with a good deal from their uncle they acquired to bright orange mack trucks.  What would become not only a living, but a passion D&D equipment and supply was born.  From an old D8 Cat and a couple water trucks it grew to two shops and eventually a fleet of coal trucks serving Utah and the surrounding states.  Next to his children D&D would become a source of immense pride not only for himself.  Even though some tough lean years Dennis stayed mindful of the work they were providing for what after 30 years would be hundreds of men and women creating lives for themselves and their children.  From holiday bonuses to turkeys, and in the early years one hell of a Christmas party.  Dennis was known as tough but fair.  Regardless of their past or situation everyone got a shot.
    He was a man of the outdoors and was an expert horseman.  Dennis loved camping, firearms and the occasional Harley ride.  Educating his children on each and the importance of taking care of what you have and never bragging.  Over the last few years one of Dennis’ favorite past times was being on the desert with his kids and old friends.  Particularly researching the outlaw trail and Robbers Roost area which eventually led to a second “career” as an amateur “ginny”ologist.  Sometimes road tripping for miles with his unsuspecting kids just to find other peoples relatives whom he mistook as his.  Of course the trip would just become a fun trip with dad.  Dennis lived his life large always doing it how he wanted.  Always wanting the best for his family and friends.  There will never be a moment when this force of nature will not be missed.  For Billy and Amy he was the sun and the air they breathe.
    He is home now with his parents and infant son Cory.  Eating Ma’s “Spurgetti”, catching up with his dad and finally getting the real scoop from Butch and Sundance.
    Preceded in death by his parents; three uncles; an aunt; and his son Cory.
    He is survived by his two children, Billy and Amy Lee; brother, Dale Lee; former wife, Debbie who came back into his life as a close friend and special care giver.
    A special thanks to his great nephew Brian Ezell for all the help and companionship.  Your uncle loved and appreciated you.
    Memorial Graveside, Friday, March 9, 2018, 11:00 a.m., Price City Cemetery.  Family will receive friends Friday morning at Mitchell Funeral Home (233 East Main Street) in Price beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price where friends are always welcome and may share memories online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.