Dean, John

John Dean passed away recently after waging a 13 year battle with heart disease. Though his body gave out his thirst for life, love of family and fiends allowed him to fight to the very end.

He was born in Ohio to Wesley and Hannah Dean. During his youth he participated in high school football, band, church choir and enjoyed his many years in Sea Scouts. He completed his education at Miami University where he received his B.S. in Marketing. Following graduation he accepted a position with AVCO Mfg. Corporation in Indiana. During this time he met Shirley who would become his wife three years later.

After one year of marriage they decided to relocate and enjoy the warm weather in New Mexico. Following their arrival in Albuquerque, John was employed by The Prudential Insurance Co. prior to beginning his long career with the U.S. Treasury Dept. During those years he was a member of 20-30 Club, Elks Lodge and The Football Club. He was also a long time supporter of UNM football and basketball programs.

Sharing a love of travel, John and Shirley’s vacation and retirement years were spent visiting many foreign countries and sites throughout the U.S. In his final retirement years John enjoyed activities at his winter beach home on the Gulf of Mexico.

John is survived by his wife Shirley with whom he shared 60+ years. Also surviving him are his sister Roberta (Douglas) Graham, two nieces, two nephews, a great niece and nephew and two greatgreat nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, step-father, mother- and father-in-law.

John’s final wishes have been followed as he requested cremation. He also asked that no formal, sad ceremony be held. Rather, he encouraged friends and family to lift a glass of cheer raised in toast to a life well lived.

His family wishes to thank the many wonderful, dedicated Fresenius Medical Care team of dialysis nurses in Albuquerque and Texas who took loving care if him during his final three years.