What a beautiful video.  Dean was a wonderful friend and I'm so sorry we somehow lost touch and I wasn't there for him at the end.  He still lives deep in my heart. Jacque

I worked for Dean as a Legislative Aide for five years back in the late 80s.  I learned a lot from Dean on legislative strategies and had a lot of great laughs.  He was one of a kind--tax expert, wayward golfer, wine lover and country music fan!  You don't find that combination very often.  He was a great person to work for and my thoughts are with his family.
Dave Dillahunt

Our deepest sympathy to Dean's family on their loss.  We knew Dean as a legislator and a good person.  Both my husband and I worked with Dean on a number of bills which benefited the working people of Ohio.  His expertise, dedication, and his great sense of humor supported his successful legislative career.  We all share your loss and pray for Dean and his family and friends. 
Carol Pierce Mix and Charles Mix

I had the distinct honor of serving with Dean Conley for 10 years in the Ohio House (all of them as a member and then Vice-Chair of his Ways and Means Committee). When he was redistricted out of office in 1992, I had the formidable task of succeeding him as the chairman.  He was always considered an expert on tax issues and capital financing,  and everytime they rated the top Ohio legislators, Dean was on the short list.

We were both involved with fiscal issue committees in the National Conference of State Legislatures, and regularly traveled throughout the country for their two or three times a year meetings. Whatever the town, Dean would find the restaurant with the best and most expensive wine list (especially if there was a lobbyist in attendance); if it also had oysters on the half shell, well, all for the better. And, if after dinner he could locate  a true country and western honky-tonk, well, it was indeed a night to remember. 

We also played many rounds of golf together; all who ever played with Dean can attest to his calm demeanor and lack of temper on the golf course.  He was known to start a round with the regulation 14 clubs in his bag, and often finish with 10 or 11 or so of them intact, the other 3 or 4 always seemed  to end up in sections or various twisted shapes. If you had the experience of riding in a car with Dean driving, well, imagine doing so on Ireland's narrow twisting roads when you're already driving on the wrong side of the street. 

I learned so much about governing and revenue issues from Dean; we also shared some unique experiences "on the road" .  It is with regret  that  I realize the last time we spoke was over 10 years ago, and  I didn't get to say goodbye to a good friend and colleague.

Daniel Troy

As a young LSC staffer, I was assigned to Rep. Conley's Ways and Means Committee.  He was an excellent legislator and committee chair; always fair to members, witnesses, and staff and knowledgeable about the subject-matter.  He ran a tight ship in committee, which you would expect from a Navy Vet.  My condolences to the Conley family.

Rick Dove

Dean was a kind and helpful legislator when I began as a lobbyist in the General Assembly.  He will be missed by the many that he befriended through his path through life.  May the family enjoy the great memories Dean has left - best stated by Ralph Waldo Emerson - "To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons, and the affection of children, to earn the approbation of honest critics; to appreciate beauty, to give of one’s self, to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived – that is to have succeeded."
Denny Roberge

I'm very sorry for your loss. I served with Dean in the Ohio House. He was a great public servant and good friend. 
Jack Cera

Dear Melba and Family,
  My deepest sympathy at the loss  of your son. May he rest in peace. 

 Sincerly Your Friend,
Eleonore D. Gonzales

Dean was an early political mentor back in the 70's - now I'm a State Rep, living in the same neighborhood he lived in (Walnut Hts). Although we lost touch over the years, I have many fond memories. My condolences to his family. Marian Harris

OBITUARY

Harold "Dean" Conley

April 15, 1946 – May 19, 2010

Schoedinger Midtown

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