As a child growing up on a farm in the Central Valley, Dean lived a simple, carefree life. Loving the outdoors. After graduating high school, he attended college at Oregon State University, and received a Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, and went on to work as a park ranger in Yosemite National Park, the summer before entering the service. Dean served his country in the Air Force for 8 years, and while he was stationed in the Philippines, he met his wife Ernesta and daughter Kimberly. They united as a family and son Kenneth was born. When he completed his service, he brought his family back to the United States to live.
Dean was employed in the semiconductor and electronics industry, as a dedicated technician for 41 years. He raised a loving family. Leaving behind two children, Kimberly and Kenneth, two grandchildren, Chelsea and Brandon, two great grandchildren, Julian and Ezra. His beloved sisters, Carol and Diane, and three cousins, Pat, Kathleen, and Susan.