December 11, 1945 – July 8, 2025
Gary Edward Dean, born on December 11, 1945, in Tipton, lived an extraordinary and fruitful life full of love, laughter, and care. Gary brought joy to all through his funny anecdotes and thoughtful gestures. Gary began his journey as a farmer in Cicero, where he not only cultivated crops but also nurtured relationships with his loved ones.
Gary served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After his service, he returned home and purchased his farm, where he became a devoted farmer, finding solace in the rhythms of nature. His loyal love for agriculture was evident in his hobbies that included farming on the family farm, mushroom hunting, raccoon hunting, and gardening. He was a man of the soil whose love for nature was only surpassed by his love for family and friends. His dedication to his work was mirrored in his unwavering loyalty and thoughtfulness towards his loved ones. The engaging conversations he had with friends and family were memorable, filled with his unique humor and wisdom. Gary’s loyalty didn’t stop with family and friends; it extended into his love for his dogs. You didn’t often see Gary without one of his farm dogs.
Gary is survived by his sons, Fred Dean and Joe (Tracy) Dean; his grandchildren, Mason (Linlee) Dean, Chandler (Macee) Dean, and Taylor (Ty) Dean; his great-grandchildren, River Trietsch, Coltor Trietsch, and Sutton Dean; and by his siblings, Bonnie Sheldon, John (Cindy) Dean, and Danny (Dawn) Dean.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roma and Geneva Dean, and his brother, Jimmy Dean.
Visitation for Gary will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Monday, July 14, 2025, at Hartley-Dunnichay Funeral Home, 209 W. Jackson St., Cicero. A funeral service will follow at the same location at 2 p.m. with Jody Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Arcadia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations payable to Shriners’ Children’s Hospital.
As we remember Gary, let us celebrate his life and the lasting impressions he left on each of us. We encourage you to share memories, stories, and photos of Gary on his memorial page as a way to keep his spirit alive in our hearts.
Condolences: hartleyfuneralhomes.com