Robert “Bob” Dean, 73, of Rio, died at 7:08 a.m. Sunday, October 28, 2018 at home.He was born April 11, 1945, in Port Huron, Michigan, the son of Lester Merritt and Ethylene (Burns-Decker) Dean. He married Faith M. Kenyon on July 2, 1988 in Halfmoon Township, New York. She preceded him in death on July 21, 2018, after 30 years of marriage.
He is survived by children, Justin (Brittany) Dean of Dahinda, Illinois, Zack (Melanie) Dean of Latham, New York, Dr. Victoria “Vicki” Callagan of Troy, New York, Amy (Dan) Mahoney of Voorheesville, New York, and Josh (Lis) Cinelli of Fort Worth, Texas; six grandchildren; two great grandchildren; a brother, Dick Dean in Michigan; and a sister, Juanita (Earl) Coon in Michigan. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and brothers and sisters.
Bob worked for the United States Department of Agriculture for many years. After moving from California to Rio in 1996, he was Assistant State Conservationist until his retiring in 2012. He was raised and educated in Michigan, earning his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. Bob was a member of the Rio Masonic Lodge 685 and Oneida American Legion Post 727. He enjoyed hunting, gardening, cooking and grilling, golfing, and spending time with his grandchildren. Bob and Faith spent winter months in Florida after retirement. Bob was of Christian faith.
He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Two Campaign Stars, and the Purple Heart.
Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. Friday, November 2, 2018 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Masonic rites will be offered at 10:45 a.m. Funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. with Deacon Michael Crummer officiating. Burial will be in Rock Island National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
