Dean Richard Morris

July 8th 1947- February 1st 2016

Dean Richard Morris, 68, passed away on February 1st 2016 in Castle Rock, CO. He was born on July 8th, 1947 in North Tonawanda, New York to Richard Samuel and Elizabeth Ruth (Wilson) Morris.

Dean grew up in North Tonawanda where he graduated from Kenmore East High School in 1965. After high school, he attended SUNY at Brockport, in Brockport New York where he received his Bachelors in Secondary Education with an emphasis on physical education in 1969. In addition, he pursued 30 additional hours in the field of physical education post-graduation. Dean had a 34-year teaching career at Oakfield-Alabama Middle / High School in Oakfield, NY, dedicating his life to the education of children. He was especially interested in project adventure based outdoor education initiatives. He also coached swimming and diving at OACS and Clarence Central High School.

Dean was married to Linda Kay Hammerton in 1990 and was happily married for 25 1/2 years. Dean worked for the Colorado Association of Swim Officials and was the founder of the Castle Rockies Senior Softball team. He enjoyed golfing with his son and watching his daughter perform in community theater. He adored his grandchildren who called him Pampa or Papa Dean. Dean enjoyed traveling around the world and skiing in the Colorado mountains with Linda.

Dean is survived by Linda, two children, Robin Marie (Jim) Morris-Gaylord of Rochester, New York, Todd Michel (Christa) Morris of Denver, Colorado, his sister Linda Joy (Glenn) Neff and five grandchildren, Maggie Gaylord, Emily Gaylord, Carleigh Gaylord, Ryan Morris, and Abby Morris.

A celebration of life service was held at Castle Rock Recreation Center in Castle Rock, CO on February 5th. His ashes will be scattered in the ocean at a later date. He loved the water, worked as a lifeguard, coached swimming and diving and officiated swim meets.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dean’s name to the Castle Rock Recreation Center, 2301 Woodlands Blvd. Castle Rock, CO 80104. Dean devoted his life to promoting physical fitness, so donations will be used to sponsor a program or purchase equipment. Please send to the attention of Margie Hutton (303-814-6408).