George John Dean

George John Dean, age 82, of Fridley, MN, passed away on April 8, 2022. He was born in Blue Earth, MN to Rollo and Helen Dean on July 23, 1939. He was a 3-sport athlete who loved basketball. His fondest memory was playing the High School Championship game in 1956. This was when only one class existed for the state. After brief stints at the University of Colorado and the University of Minnesota, he chose to serve in the US Army. George spent 3 years, mostly in Europe, again playing basketball, with the Big Blue, traveling to many countries. In 1962 he returned to Blue Earth, met a local English teacher. They were married the following July in North Dakota. George worked for Standard Oil, was transferred to Chicago for a time, returned to Minneapolis and worked for Graco. His last years of employment were in Paris, France for almost four years installing computer systems throughout Europe. He enjoyed different activities. He played softball, bowled, and coached his sons in basketball up to high school. George switched to coaching the girls' teams in Fridley with good results. Fishing was a way he loved to relax and spent a lot of time on Lake Minnewaska at his cabin. Gardening and growing popcorn was another hobby he enjoyed. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marjorie Lehman; and brother, Richard Dean. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janice and two sons, their wives and children: Tim, Stacy, Samantha & Eric; and Jon, Darcey, Matt & Annie. Funeral Service at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 30th at St. Philip's Lutheran Church in Fridley with Gathering one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to donor's choice, The American Heart Association, or The American Red Cross. Services will be live streamed on the St. Philip's Lutheran Church webpage: https://splcmn.org/