Obituary of Gilbert Crandall Dean

Gilbert (Gil) Crandall Dean, of Canadian Lakes, MI, passed away June 13, 2020 at Spectrum Health Hospital in Big Rapids. Per his wishes, cremation will take place followed by burial in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, MI.

Gil was born December 21, 1931, in Coldwater, MI, the son of Edwin and Glema (Crandall) Dean. He proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years during the Korean War. On August 29, 1954, Gil married the love of his life, Alice Harris, and together the two grew their family to include three children and countless wonderful memories. After 30 years of working for Ford Motor Company, he retired and then met his goal of living retired life longer than he had worked.  A true jokester, Gilwas always good for a laugh. He was the rock of his family willing to go above and beyond for his loved ones and friends. 

Gil was the wonderful husband of Alice Dean; loving father of Lynda (William) Shea, Karen Mater, and Gregory (Wendy) Dean; caring grandfather to Daniel, Evelyn, and Alice Shea, Kelsey, Anna, and Laura Mater, and Alexandra and Garrett Dean; reliable brother to Richard and Donald Dean, and a great friend to many. 

Sadly, he was preceded in death by his parents, brother James, and son-in-law, Wayne Mater. 

Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to The United Church of Big Rapids (120 S. State St., Big Rapids, MI 49307) or to the Shriners Hospital for Children (Attn:Office of Development, 2900 N. Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607) in lieu of flowers.

Gil Dean lived life fully and his family would be honored if you would help us remember him. We will be celebrating his life on Saturday, June 20, 2020 from 2-5pm. Please email celebrategil@familydean.net for details.

Friends may share a memory with the family online at www.JanowiczFH.com.