Dale John Vaessen

DALE JOHN VAESSEN, age 82, passed away Wednesday, September 18th, in Sarasota, FL.  Born to the late Katherine and Sylvester Vaessen, in Chicago, IL on October 26, 1941.

 

He was husband of Janet Vaessen (Wattman) of 35 years, where they had one child together - Tess.  His first family included his wife, Janet Vaessen (London) who preceded him in death, where they had two sons – John (Tracy) of Elgin and Robert (Jennifer) of Gurnee; and one grandchild Blair.

 

Dale was one of six children: two brothers – Wayne (deceased) and Ted and three sisters – Clara (deceased), Jackie and Kathy.

 

Dale was raised in Norridge, Illinois. He moved to Morton Grove where he raised his first family. He went to Washburne Trade School to become a painter. He flourished in painting and became a very successful contractor in Chicago and the North Shore. He trained his brother Ted, his nephew Tom and his son Robert who took over his business.  He moved to Florida where he built a small painting business until he retired ten years ago.

 

Dale loved the finer things in life. He enjoyed walks on the beach, traveling, music, cooking, dining out, and his daily glass of wine with his wife Janet when she returned home from work. 

He will be remembered fondly for his smile and sense of humor, his huge heart, and his love for his two families.   He called Florida his paradise and loved living there. One of Janet’s and Dale’s quotes to each other was “Blue Sky” ~ “Sunny Day”.

 

There will be a celebration of life on January 18, 2025, from 2-6pm, at his residence in Sarasota, FL. He was a member of the St Paul Lutheran Church of Sarasota.  Pastor Ashley Nicolls will be in attendance. 

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society or the Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary, Inc. (https://www.flabirdsanctuary.org/) where our bird, Max, is away at college.

 

Those wishing to leave a message can do so at https://yourtraditionsfuneralhome.com/