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David Charles Dressel
I couldn’t have said it any better than my brother, Michael Allen Dressel. Want to express our prayers and sympathy to Molly, Julie, Bill and family
Michael Allan Dressel
It was always a great time for my brother David and I to be with our uncle Gene. I remember when Gene, along with his friend Joe, would take David and I and our dog Smoky for a days jaunt to Carroll Park. We had so much fun. Uncle Gene was so outgoing and could be the life of the party. He was a big part of our growing up days we aspired to be just like him when we grew up. These are memories that we will never forget. May Gene rest in peace with his Heavenly Father for living a Life Well Lived.
Bethany Satterwhite
I was so blessed to have my Grandpa Cookie for 35 years. He was one of my biggest fans; always out to make me smile; always interested in my career; and always believed in me more than I believed in myself. He was a consumate joker and life long learner. I hope to be half the person he believed I could be.
Anne Wilson
I loved Gene. His kindness, thoughtfulness and sense of humor always filled me with love for him. I always felt welcomed in his presence. He is greatly missed.
Francis Eugene “Gene” Dressel
2026-06-07
Francis Eugene “Gene” Dressel, of Fernandina Beach, FL, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and respected professional, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026. Born August 8, 1930, in Baltimore, Maryland, Gene lived a life defined by service, dedication, and quiet strength.
Gene was the beloved son of Frederick Casper Dressel and Bertha Mamie (Ries) Dressel. He grew up with strong Catholic family values that guided him throughout his life.
A proud veteran, Gene served in the United States Navy during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He held the rank of Personnelman Seaman (E3) and served aboard the USS R.L. Wilson, a destroyer. In recognition of his exemplary service and conduct, he was recommended for the Good Conduct Medal. His time in the Navy reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment to his country.
On November 9, 1956, Gene married the love of his life, Molly Ann Dressel (née Gellstead). Together, they built a strong and loving family, sharing a lifetime of partnership, support, and cherished memories.
Gene had a distinguished career with the Central Intelligence Agency, where he worked from 1955 until his retirement in 1986. As a Manager of a Computer Specialist Group at the GS-13 level, he contributed to the advancement of critical systems during a transformative period in technology. His professionalism, leadership, and technical expertise earned him the respect of colleagues and peers throughout his career.
Gene was a devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He is survived by his son, William Douglas Dressel, and William’s children: Autumn Lynn, Chase Elliott, and Charles Eugene Dressel. He is also survived by his daughter, Julie May (Doug), and her children: Bethany Caitlyn Satterwhite (Jeremy), and Maria Grace Jarrett (Andrew) and great grandchildren Francesca and Vincent Satterwhite.
Gene will be remembered for his deep love for his family and family traditions, his favorite being blue crab picking. A true “ideas man”, he invented new ways of working and consistently pursued new interest and knowledge. His work ethic and legacy live on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A viewing and visitation will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at Oxley-Heard Funeral Home, Fernandina Beach, FL and a mass will be held at St. Michaels Catholic Church on Friday, June 12, 2026h at 11:00 AM followed by interment at Bosque Bello Cemetery.
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