Darrell F. Gress

Darrell Fredrick Gress, 103, of Port Clinton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025. Born in Washington, Indiana, on April 23, 1922, he was the son of Fredrick and Blanche (Colbert) Gress.

Darrell proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWII from 1942 to 1946 aboard the USS Jicarilla in navigation. After the war, he worked as a conductor for B&O Railroad, later Norfolk & Southern, until retiring in 1987. It was during his railroad years he met his wife, Dorothy (Bowers) Gress, in Bellevue, Ohio.

He and Dorothy made their home in Port Clinton and enjoyed winters in Florida. Darrell loved fishing on Nugent’s Canal, golfing at Oak Harbor Golf Club, and spending time at the Port Clinton Senior Center—especially for dominoes. He enjoyed being a Mason for more than 50 years at the Seneca Lodge #790 in Republic, Ohio. He was also a member of the Eastern Star Cornelia Chapter #93 in Republic, Ohio for over 50 years. A devoted Detroit Tigers fan, he scheduled his days around their games. He also had a passion for Big Band music and had an impressive album collection. Known for his independence, Darrell enjoyed cooking and dining at local spots like A La Carte, Diana’s, and Chef’s Best.

He is survived by his companion, Mary Ann Brennen; step-daughters, Janis (Dennis) Ryan and Beverly Mayr; grandchildren, Paul Mayr, Dale Mayr, and Dawn Warren; and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, his parents, siblings Noble Gress, Rollie Gress, Doris Jane Guy, and Rita Guy, step-son James Bowers, and grandson Marc Bowers.

Private services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Port Clinton Senior Center.