Dean Wallace Kornelsen

Dean is survived by his daughters: Jan & Mari; Grandchildren: Tara, Jeff & Holly; Step-Grandchildren: Brad & Cammie, and eight great-grandchildren.

Born and raised in Madrid, Nebraska, Dean left the Ranch before his high school senior year for Reedley, California. He graduated from Immanuel High School before continuing his education at Tabor College, and received his Master’s degree at the University of Northern Colorado.

In August of 1957, he married the love of his life, Barbara Jean Enns, and moved to Denver, where they raised their two daughters, Janelle Sue and Mari Jean. Although Dean’s main career was in elementary education, his true passion was working back at the Ranch, loving his family, and making sure if he was around, there was laughter.

Dean was a devoted member of both Garden Park and Belleview Acres Mennonite churches, where he served and sang in the church choir, as well as in the Men’s Octet.

Wherever Dad found himself--at home, work, or play--there were always fun times and great memories. Dad loved a good conversation and could visit with just about anyone. Whether on motorcycle trips with his buddies, camping in the Colorado Rockies, working at the Ranch, playing tennis in a league, shooting hoops or singing at church, if there were shenanigans, you could be sure that Dad was in the middle of them!

Dad laughed hard, cried easily, and taught us to live life to the fullest. He taught us how to bounce back from adversity and how to love unconditionally. He showed us true forgiveness and lived his life with integrity and strong faith.

Dad bravely and faithfully stood by Mom as she battled dementia. For seven years, Dad was at Mom’s memory care facility twice a day to help feed her and be by her side. Dad demonstrated, first-hand, what love, devotion and commitment truly looks like.

Dad could never quite imagine life without Mom. After her passing in October, he developed heart problems, and only 3-½ months later, Dad followed Mom into eternity.

Once again, we have to say, "Good-bye, for now.” As hard as this is to do, we thank the Lord that Dad is home with his Savior - happy, healthy, whole, and hand-in-hand with Mom.

“Thank you, Dad, for teaching us how to love, laugh, and forgive. We miss you more than words can say, and we look forward to being together again!”