- (Ref photos of William attached to his obit)
Dehen, William Lawrence 91 May 17, 1922 Oct. 01, 2013 William "Bill" Lawrence Dehen passed away from complications of Parkinson's disease at home on Oct. 1, 2013, surrounded by his loving wife, Lou Ann and family. Bill, son of William Peter Isenberg-Dehen and Cecilia Schmitt, was born in Portland on May 17, 1922, and grew up in the Montavilla and Goose Hollow neighborhoods. He attended Ascension and Cathedral Catholic Grade Schools and Lincoln High School, where he excelled and made lifelong friends. Bill joined the U.S. Navy in 1942 and served four and one-half years in the Pacific Theatre as a submarine torpedoman. After the war, Bill returned to Portland and attended the University of Portland before joining the family garment manufacturing business, Dehen Knitting Company, in 1946. He met Lou Ann Harris in March of 1948, and after a brief courtship, they were married on July 31, enjoying 65 years of marriage. Bill enjoyed 91 years of a life well lived. Bill was a respected member of the business community and led Dehen Knitting Company for over 30 years before retiring in 1984. Although he was successful in business, he would have done anything well. He was hardworking and committed to the important things in life. Building the business was something he did for his family and the generations that followed. The company continues with a third and fourth generation, manufacturing wool sweaters, jackets and cheerleading uniforms in its Portland factory. His family was the most important part of Bill's life. He was a loving husband and gentle father who made raising 10 children look easy. His family and friends treasure his warmth and sharp wit. Bill leaves a tremendous legacy of kindness and generosity and he is sorely missed. Bill was preceded in death by brother, Henry; and sisters, Rosemary Dehen and Alvira Tromp. He is survived by Lou Ann; children, Michael (Cathy), Thomas (Judy), John (Brenda), Mary Scotto (Frank), Peter (Dale), Daniel Regina),Patricia, Elizabeth Artaiz (Jim), Joanna (Olivia), Rebecca Monaghan(Peter); 23 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A recitation of the rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, at Zeller Chapel of the Roses, 2107 N.E. Broadway St. A celebration of the Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11, 2013, at Ascension Catholic Church, 743 S.E. 76th Ave., with the Monsignor Timothy Murphy presiding. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to Saint Vincent de Paul, 5120 S.E. Milwaukee Ave., or Central Catholic High School, 2401 S.E. Stark St.
Published in The Oregonian on Oct. 6, 2013
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1922 - 2013 (91 years)
