Dean graduated from Northeast High School in 1948, where he participated in ROTC and played trumpet in the marching band. Dean served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He married June Holloway in 1955 and to this union three children were born. Dean enjoyed military history, especially Civil War related; jazz music, especially Stan Kenton; the cabin in Colorado; sport shooting; summertime; iced tea and ginger ale. He was a staunch supporter of the 2nd Amendment and a lifetime member of the NRA.
Dean is survived by his children, Paul E. Smith, David C. (Anita) Smith, and Rachel (Christopher) Berry; grandchildren, Matthew Smith, Zach Gunter, and their mother, Christine, Chris (Brittney) Hooten; one great grandchild, Molly Hooten; nephew, Brian (Lena) Holloway; and his beloved kitties, Mama Kitty and Boomer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert E. and Eva M. (Dean) Smith, and his brother, Leonard. June passed away in 2014.