Obituary of Donald Murray Dean

Peacefully at McGarrell Place, London, on Monday, April 26, 2021 in his 86th year. Don was the fourth son of Harry and Betty Dean, the beloved husband of Lorna, (predeceased October 22, 2015 ) and father to Susan Dean (John Ereaux), Karen Osterberg (Shawn), Julie Marnoch (Jeff), James Dean (Christos Panagiotakis) and Ruth Dean (Zolton Karvas). Grandfather to Adam, Jordyn, Kyle, Graham, Paisley, Ocean, Max, Lukas and Sam. He loved each one of his children and grandchildren dearly. He will be missed by many, including one very special friend to Don, Elise Mitchell, who provided unwavering friendship, love and support in recent years. Don started his working career with the Department of Highways building the 401 Highway. He was the Road Superintendent for London Township and the Chief Administrative Officer for the Association of Ontario Road Supervisors. During his career he also taught courses with the Ontario Good Roads Association. Sharing his knowledge continued into his retirement years where he enjoyed teaching people how to play his favourite game, Rummikub. Don was known for his kindness, gentle spirit and the infamous Dean banter. He loved to banter with his brothers Jack, Bill and Bob, and when they passed, his nephews John and Ross. Wherever Don went, people commented on his thoughtfulness and humorous nature. “He always made us laugh and feel good.” He was known for his quick wit, and ability to create a song or a poem “on the fly.” In recent years, Covid, combined with a dementia diagnosis and the loss of family members dear to him, provided many challenges for Don, but his mantra always was, “Well, I just need to keep going and do the best I can.” No matter what Don did, the most important things in his life were his family, cherished friends and his faith in God. He would often say, “I know who I am, and I know where I am going.” Go with peace Dad. We will always, love you! And we know you would respond, “I love you too, hun!” A celebration of Don’s life will be held at a later time when everyone can mingle, remember Don, eat butter tarts (his favourite) and laugh together. Expressions of sympathy and donations (Alzheimer’s Society) may be made through London Cremation Services. A special thank-you, to the loving and caring staff at the McGarrell Place for their compassion and care for Don in his final days, to Reverend Phil Butler for praying with Don, and to cousin Roberta, nieces Brenda and Elaine, and nephew Mark for holding Don’s hand. Expressions of sympathy and donations may be made through London Cremation Services at 519-672-0459 or online at www.londoncremation.com