Alton Bay, NH

Dennis King Witherbee was a good man who believed in hard work and the beauty of a broken clock.
Born on December 13, 1941, he grew up on the lake. He loved boats, cars, antiques, and fixing things. He loved his parents Ethel and Raymond.
He married his sweetheart, Fran, in 1963 and spent his life devoted wholly to her (and, of course, to God – a love they shared).
His family – Fran, and their two daughters, Roxanne and Tanya – remember a loyal, steadfast patriarch who enjoyed a good prank. Blue eyes bright with mirth and mischief always gave away his "innocent smile."
Dennis' craftiness afforded him a 25-year career at DEKA R&D in Manchester, where his hands and mind helped shape technology that would change the world. He so liked his team, and his desk, that he refused to retire.
"Papa" – to his oldest grandson, rather more like a son, Jeremy – was a role model. Sharing tools, cars, and a love of fixing, the two tinkered together nearly until the end.
Jeremy's children will remember him fondly: Troy, the ever-devoted fisherman who treasures Papa's tackle, and Jasper, the toddler who inherited an interest in mowing lawns and taking things apart.
Papa's – Dennis' – last days were spent at his second-generation home surrounded by friends and family. A constant vigil of companions told him he was deeply loved and appreciated.
He died just before 11:00 on the morning of August 21, 2017, with his hand clasped in Jeremy's and his loving wife by his side.
Now, every time an antique clock chimes the hour, we'll think of Papa.

Those who wish may join the family at the Peaslee Funeral Home, 24 Central Street in Farmington on Thursday, August 31st for a calling hour between 5-6pm and a memorial service from 6-7pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Central NH VNA Hospice, who took care of Dennis in his last days and looks in after the family even still.