Dean Atwood (D. A.) Chase departed this life to join his higher power on June 23, 2003 after a long battle with cancer.He was born on June 2, 1940 to Dean and Dorothy Chase in Great Bend, Kansas. After graduation from Midland High School he attended Texas Tech University. He was drafted into the United States Army and served in Panama for two years. He received numerous medals and honors during his service to his country.After returning to Midland he met Beverly Pettit. They married August 6, 1969. They were avid divers and loved the ocean. They bought a sailboat and sailed to the U.S. Virgin Islands. From there, they began an adventure around the world which lasted four years. Thirteen days after their return their only son, Kevin Dean Chase, was born in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. where Dean resided for the next 23 years.Dean was a very creative person. He designed and built numerous water purification systems on and around St. Thomas. He loved meeting new people and learning about different cultures.He returned to Midland in Januaary 2002 where he lived with his sister until his death. His body was donated to medical science. His family plans to celebrate his life over the July 4th weekend.Survivors include son; Kevin Chase; one brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Susanne Chase; one sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Gene Grimes all of Midland and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Dorothy Chase.Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Midland, P.O. 2621, Midland, Texas 79702. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. For online condolences go to www.npwelch.com,
