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John Dee Obituary

Dee, John
John Dee, 67 passed away on March 15th 2013. He was born in Providence Rhode Island and moved to Phoenix after serving his country in Vietnam from 1966-1969. John joined the Phoenix Police Department in 1971 to protect and serve the citizens of Phoenix and did so for 34 years. John was a friend to so many and changed lives with his kindness, bravery and compassion for all. John is survived by his wife, Susan, sons Ryan (Veronique), Wyatt (Kim) and daughter Allison. John has 5 loving siblings Katherine (Fowzy)of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Patricia, Jeffery, Terry (Emily), and James ,deceased (Christy) of Tucson Arizona. John was very close with to mother in law Vera Stubing and brother in law David Stubing (Vernice). John has three grandchildren he adored Madeline, Sagamore, and Reggie of Flagstaff and Wyoming. John Dee was a decorated police officer who is survived by a colorful and celebrated reputation as being the one of the finest cops to ever walk the streets of Phoenix. A memorial service will be held at a later date, family and friends will be notified. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the Arizona Humane Society.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Mar. 19, 2013.
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My wife and I were just talking about John and I was looking up his retirement when I saw this. Sorry for the loss of an amazing man. John and I met at the academy. My family name in CT was Dee, so we had a connection. Salt of the earth. Rest in Peace my friend.

Sean

Work

February 14, 2024

Johnn was one of the best officers that ever worked for me. He is missed by all who knew him...

Sgt Bob Gibbons

Work

March 13, 2023

Big John I miss you my friend Rest In Peace

Eddie Rizo

Friend

March 13, 2023

Rest in Peace my Friend

Tom Kulesa

June 6, 2019

Allison and family; as you know Vanessa loved your incredible Dad and will miss him immensely. He was a kind, gentle, and patient man with the Special Olympians as well as with the kids at the dances. He made Vanessa feel extra special and she thought the world of him, and I agree with her. Thank you for sharing him with her. Take care and remember that as a daughter of a former police officer, like you, his memory is in the hearts of so many wonderful blue brothers and sisters that we are blessed to have this extraordinary community who also knew and loved him. God bless you and your family.
Cecilia Black Robles

Cecilia Black Robles

April 17, 2013

I attended H.S.in the mid 1960,s with"Jack",as we called him,then.Even then,he exemplified all the positive traits so glowingly written in this guest book.His family came first,and he loved and respected his parents,and was a role model and protector of his younger siblings,especially Kathy and Patricia.He was a good friend,steady and trustworthy,dependable and reliable.On the football field and basketball court he was a team player and always a good sport.He was not however,a nambi -pambi!He would not be bullied,nor would he allow it!Jack became a hero the day he stood up to a very mean teacher at Scituate H.S.That day the teacher dismissed the girls from class and made all the boys line up single file.As each boy left,he whacked him across the back of his legs with the long wooden blackboard pointer.Until Jack,that is!Jack lifted him up,and pinned him to the wall and told him he would not hit him,or anyone else!Jack becamme a legend that day,and as far as I know he never got in any trouble over the incident.I can imagine this tale brings a smile to those who knew and loved him.I will always remember him fondly,and I send my deepest condolences to his family.God bless you all,and may Jack rest in peace. Sincerely,Marilynn Warner Hammond.

Marilynn Hammond

April 15, 2013

I knew officer John Dee through my work at Houston's, where he would come and watch our restaurant on Friday & Saturday nights after finishing his regular police duty at the airport. He often looked tired but always had a kind smile on his face . I would make him a small late night snack , which he accepted with his wonderful smile. Me being an immigrant from India , he would often ask me about my native country, especially Indian cuisine . We also talked about music, rock ' n' roll of course, and both agreed that two of the best guitar bands of all time is Dire Straits & ZZ Top. Although we both come from very different background and generation , John was always easy to talk to, and always respectful and kind to others. I also met his beautiful daughter Allison , who worked at our restaurant for a little while.
My heart goes out to John and his family, I wish them well, especially during these tough times.
I am thankful to God, that I got a chance to meet a true gentleman like John.
God bless us all !
- Bash

Bash

April 10, 2013

Pained to hear of Johns passing. A trusted friend and colleague. I aspire to have his wisdom, patience, humor and humble demeanor. Frank Kardasz

Frank Kardasz

April 3, 2013

April 2, 2013

Johh's wife Sue is my cousin, so I always called John my cousin-in-law. It was an honor for me to have him as "family". He was such and inspiration, always with that quick smile and his own special brand of humor...and I know that you know what I mean! I was blessed to see him just a few weeks before he passed as we traveled through Phoenix. I mentioned that I was looking for a knife to add to my collection. He said, "I've got one for you" and presented me with a beautiful custom blade. I refused this kind gesture but John said, " You can take it in your hand, or I can leave it in your chest, what's your choice?". That was John Dee in 25 words or less!!! He always knew how to say something that would persuade you to see his point of view. I'll miss the old gahout until we can get together again at that ole firing range in the sky. So long, Johnnie. Love, Jim and Phyllis Hiemenz

Jim Hiemenz

March 30, 2013

John was the silent pillar at Sam's Club where we often talked about "life" issues like politics, weather, family, God and Country. He will be missed. Thank you sir for being an encouragement to so many. Larry Hofmann, WSBC, Goodyear

Larry Hofmann

March 28, 2013

I had the privilege of working off duty with John at Phoenix First Assembly of God church. We worked many special events and shared many stories. I admired him and he always made the time go faster because of his sense of humor and his interesting views. You were one of the finest police officers I ever worked around and you will be missed. RIP my friend.

Francesca Anatra

March 27, 2013

Only Knew John from Sams Club but always a joy to talk to John you will be truly missed. James Walker Buckeye,Az.

March 26, 2013

Knowing and working with John from the days in the "Duce" to our times at the airport was my honor. He was always the Man. John you truly were a legend in your own time. Your style showed so many of us what a real true police officer was. I miss you my friend..

Tom Fribbs

March 25, 2013

The Peoria Adaptive Recreation Program was privileged to have John work for the us for several years. He touched the lives of so many individuals with disabilities and will truly be missed.

Paula Considine

March 25, 2013

I had the distinct pleasure of learning from John Dee both on and off duty.
Although his prowess was legend beyond my capabilities, this was what inspired me to be a better police officer and detective.

Tim Moore

March 25, 2013

I worked with John a few times during the 1980's. He made me, a complete stranger, feel like and old friend. John was always there to help, share his wisdom and his humor. John left an incredible legacy, a legacy we will remember forever. John's shoes will never be filled, but it is something to strive for.

Joe retired AZDPS

March 25, 2013

John Dee was a good friend of my husband, Martin Smith as they served many search warrants together in the '70s & '80s in narcotics on Phx.PD. John also was at our home occasionally for me to give him a haircut. What a great guy with a big smile and wonderful humor. John you and Martin are together again and may you rest in peace. My prayers are with you Susan, family and friends. God Bless and may your beautiful memories sustain you.
Kay Smith

Kay Smith

March 24, 2013

John taught my academy class in drug recognition back in 1982. It's hard to say goodbye to the previous generation.

Bill Gatlin

March 24, 2013

Thank you for your service John. How you could run at the academy then smoke a cigarette when the rest gasped for air. Amazing

Ron Chavez

March 22, 2013

My old friend "Juan" Dee.........you were one of a kind pal. You will be surely misses, rest in peace John. God Bless you!

Antonio Morales

March 21, 2013

On several occasions my husband Terry & myself would get to see John at the airport...he had the best smile that always made you feel like you were his long lost friend and he could not be happier to see you. John, my hope is that Terry was there to greet you...Susan, stay strong for your family and know that John was so loved by so many friends, he will never be forgotten. Hugs & prayers to all...

Ruthie Cooper

March 21, 2013

I got the pleasure of working with John and Allison at the City of Peoria. In his retirement years he worked our dances and coached Special Olympics Basketball along side his daughter. John, you will be truly missed! As we enter our State Special Olympics Basketball Competition this weekend we will be thinking about you and bring home a gold!

Jodi Jones

March 21, 2013

John was a living legend as an officer a trusted back-up an amazing charactor and a friend

Mike Farrell

March 21, 2013

My brother Jack (Joppy) as he was know to my siblings and I was truly a good soul with a tender heart. Since I was little we had an endearing soft spot for each other. I loved him very much. God Bless You Joppy, Rest In Peace.

Kathy Dee

March 21, 2013

Long Live the great memories of John.
It was big fun and an honor to work with him over the years. I consider it a special gift that i unexpectedly ran into him recently at the antique shop where he and his wife display their collectibles. He was happy and enthusiastic as usual and he wore a wide proud grin as he introduced his wife. It was the same proud grin he wore when he brought her to meet the guys in the old SIB office over 25 years ago. As with anyone else who could speak any Spanish at all, John would eventually talk with me in Spanish. It was a given, and he was consistent even then. It was a good visit and he spoke fondly of all his friends from work.
Rest well John, Dios te Bendiga

Gil

March 20, 2013

John was a cop's cop and an even better person. Add me to the long list of admirers. Rest in peace my friend, you were one hell of a man...

Bob Gibbons

March 20, 2013

Our love and prayers are with you. May The Lord grant you peace and comfort you.

Love,
Roger & Cindy

Roger & Cindy Meyer

March 20, 2013

It was my privilege to be John's last Sgt. on the Department. He was the ultimate officer, smart, caring, with an incredible standard for quailty of work. No asssgnment was "too trivial" for John and all were handled with professionalism. He never complained about his physical problems and outworked peers half his age. He was respected by all who worked with him and was truly a "cop's cop". Add me to the long list of those who will never forget one a hell of a man. RIP brother in blue...

Bob Gibbons

March 20, 2013

It's never easy seeing great guys and great street cops pass too soon. Ray Andersen and I were reminiscing about the years they spent working together at the academy.I have nothing but smiles and fond memories of John Dee. It's just a reminder to all of us OLD BUCKS that loved to work the street that life is short. My heart goes out to the family..God Bless.

James Riley

March 20, 2013

What more can be said about John that already has not been said. Compassionate in an underlying way to his brothers and sisters in blue. I never worked directly with John but he taught a mean search warrant class. He is all that is in the great Paul Harvey poem about police officers and much more. God bless you and your family I am sure you are intertaing may fallen brothers and sisters there in that great police breifing room upstairs.

Rob Asay

March 20, 2013

A man's man, and a Narc's narc ! RIP

Bill Seyfried GPD ( Ret.)

March 20, 2013

John was a part-time counselor when I was in class 208, and often ran with us. I got to know John as a class act, and a good person to question on Police work. Often times I would see him working a traffic job and I would go to Circle K and get him a big gulp. John will be missed by alot of people.

Tony Chaney

March 20, 2013

John, Rest in Peace, My Friend......You are in a better place...you have touch so many hearts here on earth and you will be missed...your friend Sabino Martinez

March 20, 2013

John, he was "colorful." I never had a dull night working off-duty with the great one. The world has less color without John.

Jim Maish

March 19, 2013

John Dee,
You are the Quan, you kept me laughing when I didn't want to. You had a serious side, you were a teacher, however, it always amused you to watch my reaction as the serious side turned into a huge smile. Our days at the Academy can never be replaced, and I will always remember the day that John's Rock disappeared from the Academy grounds, forever. Gary Vigneault

March 19, 2013

John Dee, a name I heard my first year (1980) as the guy to go to with questions about dope, 1982, went to walking beat, and Mr Dee gave me some personal instruction on what to look for in the hunt for hairon. I was a much better cop because of John Dee, thank you brother for taking a rookie and helping him to be better!!! You will be sorely missed in the blue line!

Jerry Laird

March 19, 2013

Juan,that is what I have called you since 1072 at Maryvale Station,because you are (ONE) of a kind. Thanks for memories that will always be cherised,you taught me alot about Police work. God Bless you and your family.

Ricardo Ramos

March 19, 2013

John was one of the greatest but acted like a big brother to all. Even when I was a new person on the police department John treated me like a long time friend the first time I met him. He loved life and was always a person we could count on for virtually anything. I'll miss ya John, till we meet again.

Rick Gehlbach

March 19, 2013

Rest in Peace my brother... it was a real pleasure knowing you.

March 19, 2013

There is not a police officer in Phoenix that served since 1971 that did not have some working contact or favorable encounter with John. John had eather taught all of us on the street or at the Academy some time and left us much more knowledgable with the ability to do our job uch better. As good as he was as a teacher, he was even a better friend, dedicated to the department and the citizens of Phoenix. He was a great officer and will always be a favorable memory to all of us who knew him. John left us with the pleasure of his friendship and his spirit which will live forever, thank you John, rest in peace my friend.

Sgt. Dave Lane Retired

March 19, 2013

Thanks for showing me the ropes,Sir. May ST.MICHAELS greet you at the gates of Heaven.

San Young

March 19, 2013

John, you were truly a great man and one of the best police officers I have ever known. Your humor, dedication, and big heart made you loved by everyone! You were also the only man I know who had a better Barbie collection than I did. RIP my friend! Becky

Becky Todd-Mann

March 19, 2013

It was an honor and a pleasure working with John Dee. He had an amazing heart, great sense of humor,and a tremendous wit ! John in a word was impressive, touching many lives. I will miss you my friend, RIP. God Bless

Jason Peterson

March 19, 2013

John, it was my pleasure to have known and worked with you and my deepest condolences go out to to your beloved family. Rest in Peace, my friend.

Laura Garcia

March 19, 2013

It was one of my greatest privileges to work with you. I consider myself very fortunate to have worked in a time at Phoenix PD when people like John Dee where there!
John Stevens

John Stevens

March 19, 2013

John, you will be missed by those who knew you and worked with you. I still remember seeing you for the first time when I was a rookie. You were working undercover narcotics and everyone around me spoke highly of you. I always thought of you as "The Man" and always will. RIP my dear friend and thanks for all your advise and for being a good example of a good officer.

Rudy Bustamante

March 19, 2013

John: You were a great inspiration and wonderful friend. I will sure miss your quiet smiles and amazing sense of humor. It was an honor working with you. RIP my friend!

Glynis Peterson

March 19, 2013

John you were an inspiration and a wonderful friend. I will miss your quiet smiles and everlasting humor. RIP my friend!

Glynis

March 19, 2013

You will be missed John. Thanks for your friendship.

Sam Enmon

March 19, 2013

Rest in peace John. Susie and family our prayers are with you on this sad time.

Linda Imes

March 19, 2013

John, it was my honor and privilege to know and work with you. It was always a brighter day when I knew I'd be working with you. Until we meet again, thank you, sir.

Art Carpenter

March 19, 2013

Good bye my brother, until we meet again. You will be missed by all who know you.

Greg Jimenez

March 19, 2013

John, I remember you when you taught narcotics to my class "181" at the police academy. I never thought I would meet you again. Then you came in as a RTO with me for class 209. I will always remember your humor and dedication. I will never forget how you out ran me with an unfiltered Camel hanging out of your mouth. Rest in peace my friend.

Al Moore

March 19, 2013

John was a true legend at the PPD. He was one of the most knowledgeable, talented and compassionate people I ever knew at the PD. His sense of humor was boundless and his dedication to the citizens he served was impeccable. John was the one you could always count on and I find my life blessed to have known him. RIP, My Brother and Friend. You will never be forgotten. May God bless your loved ones in the time of need.

Les Matlock

March 19, 2013

You will be greatly missed, Dear Friend. Thank you for being such an inspiration and a hero to Shawn and I. What an amazing man you were and a pleasure to work with. God Bless you and your family. Shari Rohwer and Shawn Fisher

March 19, 2013

My Dear Friend you will be greatly missed. Thank you for being an inspiration and a hero to Shawn and I. What an amazing man, such a pleasure to work with. God Bless you and your family.

March 19, 2013

John what a pleasure it was to get to know you and work with you at the airport. RIP

Lisa DeVree

March 19, 2013

The world has lost a great man. This is known by all that ever worked with him. You will be missed my brother.

Police Department

March 19, 2013

John you were the Best of the Best... The earth is a little less amazing without you in it.. You'll be missed "Old Lion," more than words can express.

Connie Sullivan

March 19, 2013

Susan and Allison - I am so sorry for your loss. I was so honored to meet him when I came out to visit. And thank you for inviting me to your reunion where I got to spend more time with John. I am happy though that he is now out of pain. I love you all.

Nancy Houghtby

March 19, 2013

God bless you John.

Bill Daily

March 19, 2013

John was one of the finest officers I've ever met. I'm retired DPS Narcotics. I worked with John on the FBI Task Force and other joint agency cases. There was only one John. It is my honor to have known and worked with him. Bless all of the family, friends and fellow officers. John will be greatly missed.

Bill Daily

March 19, 2013

I will miss John's quick sense of humor and discussions about lobster in Maine.

Betsy Porter

March 19, 2013

RIP John Dee. You were a pleasure to know and I am certain that you are watching over all those that you cared for most!

Melanie Mendoza

March 19, 2013

Gonna miss "JohnBoy" as Suzy would say...always had kind words of encouragement for me...i will truly miss you...R I P

Mary Hartsfield

March 19, 2013

John was one of the good guys! He was the kindest, sweetest man and I am proud to call a friend. He was a joy to work with at the PPD always with a smile on his face. John you are now free of pain, be at peace.

Sharon Nunez-White

March 19, 2013

John, a true friend and the most knowledgeable cop I have ever known. You will be missed. God Bless.

Tom Dahl

March 19, 2013

Mr. John was such a wonderful man! Almost every day for the last four years I looked forward to seeing his smiling face at Sams club in the mornings. Even if my children would go with me they would ask "Is Mr. John gonna be there?!" because he would always make them feel special. He will truly be missed....my prayers go out to the family and loved ones.

Holli Muth

March 19, 2013

He was my oldest brother and I admired him greatly. He was the strongest man I know and the sweetest. I know he is resting now in peace and without pain. Loved that man!!!

Patricia Dee

March 19, 2013

My heartfelt sympathy for the Dee family. John and his partner Bill Meredith would stop to say hello while making their rounds at the airport where I worked in the Aviation department. I always had a drawer filled with "Little Debbie" cookies for them, as they had quite the sweet tooth. I appreciated John's intellect, as well his very dry sense of humor. I never realized how humble this man was until other officers shared with me the great respect they felt towards him. Many officers had been students of John while he was an instructor, and many shared their experiences in working with him. He was truly one of Phoenix's finest. The City of Phoenix, and all whose lives he touched, will always remember him fondly.

Anita Bradley

March 19, 2013

May the God of all comfort strengthen the Dee family during this time of sorrow. " Those who die God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes." (Psalms 116:15)

w petties

March 19, 2013

Truley a wonderful man. He will be missed. God Bless Him

Richard Hyde

March 19, 2013

John; You will be missed. You set the bar for what a real police officer should be. I am proud to have known you and worked with you. Peace to you.

Jim Walls

March 19, 2013

John,my friend and faithful brother I will sorely miss you and the good times we had through out the city.May God bless you and your family.

Edward Rizo

March 19, 2013

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