Dee Elvis Kimbell, a devoted father, decorated veteran, accomplished engineer, and proud Texan, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, in Chanute, at the age of 87.
Born on March 23, 1938, in Canadian, Texas, Dee grew up in the small towns of Texas and Oklahoma before graduating from high school in Meade, Kansas, in 1956. He earned a degree in Civil Engineering from Kansas State University in 1961 and continued his education through postgraduate studies at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, the University of Washington, and Marquette University.
In 1958, Dee married Jean Painter. Together, they welcomed two sons, Kevin and Jeff, and raised their family in Kansas. Dee remained a dedicated father and later, a devoted grandfather throughout his life.
Dee began his professional career as a Commissioned Officer in the U.S. Navy, serving actively from 1961 to 1964 and again from 1966 to 1969, including service in the Vietnam War. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander, he was awarded the Silver Medal in 1967 and named one of the Outstanding Young Men of America in 1968.
Following his military service, Dee spent nearly three decades with the Kansas Department of Transportation, serving in roles across the state, including 22 years as district engineer for District Four in Chanute. He retired in January 1999.
Outside of family and work, Dee was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in hunting and fishing, especially during annual trips with his sons. Later in life, he developed a deep passion for genealogy, dedicating countless hours to building the Kimbell family tree. Throughout his life, Dee was also a loyal Kansas State University sports fan.
Dee is survived by his sister Lee Carbone, sons, Kevin Kimbell and Jeff Kimbell; daughters-in-law Susan Kimbell and Francesca Kimbell; grandchildren Will, Sofia, and Ella Kimbell; and his beloved granddogs, Sage and Mabel.
A visitation will be held at Countryside Funeral Home, on Aug.23, from 3-5 p.m. All who knew him are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Gentiva Hospice.
Dee will be laid to rest in his birthplace of Canadian, Texas.
