Dean R. Gilland

Of Arlington Heights

Dean R. Gilland, 79, of Arlington Heights, passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2021, at Northwest Community Hospital. He will be deeply missed by those who were fortunate enough to have enjoyed his love and friendship.

Dean was born to parents Merrell and Goldie Gilland (nee Harris) on September 26, 1941, in Springfield, Minnesota. He grew up on the family’s farm in rural Redwood Falls, Minnesota. After graduating from Redwood Falls High School, Dean went on to attend Macalester College on a wrestling scholarship where he earned his degree in economics. Following graduation from college in 1963, Dean began his career in sales while serving as the head wrestling coach at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Dean had a highly successful career in Sales Management and spent over 30 years working for Scott Paper Company. After his career with Scott Paper Company, Dean pursued additional careers in the mortgage business and with the National Automatic Merchandising Association. Dean had an aptitude for networking and enjoyed mentoring his younger friends and associates. He forged many meaningful connections with his colleagues and was passionate about helping others start their careers.

Dean was a proud veteran of the United States Army. He was trained as a medic and was discharged with full honors in October of 1970. He will be remembered for his patriotism as well as his undying love for and devotion to his family, his almighty God and his country. Dean enjoyed nature and when he wasn’t at work or enjoying time with his family, he could be found outside caring for the land. Dean could turn any backyard into a masterful landscape of beautiful flowers as well as a safe and nurturing refuge for wildlife.

Dean is survived by his loving wife of 54 years Nancy Gilland (nee Perley); son Robert (Melissa); daughter Kristen; sister Sharon; his beloved grandsons Alex (23), Erik (17) and Spencer (11), sister in law Charlene, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Michael and nephew Todd.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Wounded Warrior Project and First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights.

All services and interment will be held privately.

Funeral Information and condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFuneralHome.com or

(847) 253-0168.