Michael Robert Dean

Michael Robert Dean was born 11/14/1958 in Ormond Beach, Fl and passed away suddenly on 10/18/2018 in Tucson, Az at the age of 59.   He was preceded in death by his brother Mark, mother Janice, and, both sets of grand-parents.  Mike is survived by his wife of 24 years Robin, father George Dean (Becky Smith), sister Cindy Ruuskanen (Jouni), half-sisters Elizabeth Dean and Jennifer (Mike) Kelley, half-brother Russell (Stacy) Dean, step “ma in law” Phyllis Anstee, as well as uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and family “in law”.

Mike grew up in parts of North Carolina and Ohio before eventually ending up in Tucson.  He could talk for hours about his experiences growing up working on a farm and exploring the hills of North Carolina.  He equally loved the desert landscape and the mountains here in Arizona.  He spent countless hours exploring the many trails and treasures that our beautiful landscape here has to offer.

Mike was Vice President of local non-profit animal rescue Mostly Cockers & Poms, and, a long-time member, and past President, of the Tucson Rough Riders outdoor club.  His passions other than pets and exploring were:  playing guitar, target shooting, helping stranded motorists, cars/motorcycles, reading, fried chicken, learning new things, puns, and, talking about the bible with people.

Mike was such a big presence and he will be very much missed.  Mike would like you all to remember him with love and smiles, not tears and sadness.  If you would like to make a donation in Mike’s memory, you can donate to his rescue, Mostly Cockers & Poms c/o 7950 N. Soledad Avenue, Tucson, Arizona  85741.  Please note on donation “In memory of Mike Dean”.  Alternately, you can make a donation to the charity of your choice – there are so many that are in need so please follow your heart.  Or, please consider doing a good deed and “paying it forward”.  Help someone in need, say a kind word to a stranger you meet, if you have a skill and can be there for someone in need to bless them, please do.  Mike always went out of his way to help his friends, and, even strangers, in any way he could.  The biggest honor you could give his memory is to be kind and love each other.

A memorial service will be held on 12/01/2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Marana Mortuary Cemetery, 12146 W Barnett Road, Marana, AZ.   A celebration of life will be held after with refreshments, photos and a memory book to write in or sign.  Directions for the celebration will be available at the service.