July 23, 2018
Dean passed away on July 23rd at the young age of 66. Being the stubborn and rebellious person that he was, he fought hard, but the cancer got him in the end. He remained at home until it was time to go, which was his wish.
Dean was born and raised in New Brunswick where he was fortunate to meet the love of his life, Lynne. Lynne was motorcycle-crazy and Dean had one. This made them the perfect couple. They were married almost 47 years. Dean worked in the logging/construction industry until computers became a thing and he promptly became obsessed and bravely returned to school at the age of 45. Afterward, he secured employment with Grant Thornton LLP where he enjoyed a career as their Network Administrator for 20 years.
Dean accomplished many things in his life, but his most prized achievements were his two children, Matt and Melissa, and his two grandchildren, Monika and Noah, all of whom will miss him terribly. Dean is also survived by his older sister Sandra and his younger brother John (Diane). Even though Dean threw John's boots in the river when he was a teenager they were very close and enjoyed many motorcycle rides, camping trips and more than a little Budweiser. He is also survived by his nieces Kathryn and Erika and his nephew, Geordie.
Dean was a musician who played in bands on and off pretty much his whole life. Matt followed in his Dad's musical footsteps and they played in bands together for several years. There are many great memories and stories of those gigs which family and friends will cherish forever. His love of technology rubbed off on Melissa and she learned a great deal from him, becoming quite the computer guru herself. She and her Dad had many conversations which sounded like gibberish to the rest of us. Both Matt and Melissa share their parents' love of motorcycles. Matt has been riding for a few years now and Melissa has recently started. Dean saw her ride before he passed, and he was tickled.
Dean was very proud of both of his children. He was blessed to have the love and respect of many friends. He was a quiet guy (until the Bud kicked-in) but still waters do run deep and he when he felt things, he felt them very deeply. He had some very special friends (you know who you are); you should know that he loved you all very much.
Lynne and family would like to thank all of the medical professionals who shared this journey with them, especially the nurses in the Palliative Care program - you were totally amazing. On Saturday, July 28 there will be a memorial ride gathering at 12 p.m. at the German Canadian Hall on Cary Road. The ride will return to the hall, where a celebration of life will be held starting at 3 pm. Our family looks forward to seeing you there. For further information please contact a family member.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Interior BC Association for Injured Motorcyclists or Brain Trust Canada would be appreciated. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com
Funeral arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services 250-762-2299.
First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna
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