Thomas "Tom" Dean's Obituary
Thomas Richard “Tom” Dean, 79, of Sullivan, Illinois passed from his earthly home to his eternal heavenly home on December 12, 2024, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center with family at his bedside.
He was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, the son of Dr. Richard and Dorothy (Sherman) Dean on November 3, 1945. Tom was raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, graduating from Pius X High School and the University of Nebraska. He moved to Sullivan where he worked at Dean’s Custom Pensions. He also served the people of Sullivan as Mayor from 1983 to 1991.
Tom married Barbara Jean “Barb” Abrams on July 20, 1969. They often joked they wouldn’t forget their anniversary as it was the date man first walked on the moon. They celebrated 55 years of marriage together, and he cherished every moment with the love of his life.
He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, 4th degree. He was a pilot and enjoyed flying his plane, and he certainly never met a stranger.
He is survived by his wife Barb, daughter Linda (Michael) of Anthem, Arizona, sons Mike (Kristin) of Viera, Florida and Rick of Sherwood, Arkansas and three grandchildren: Madeline, Shaley, and Tyler. He is also survived by his sisters Ruth Anne (Lynn) of Oro Valley, Arizona and Suzy Devore of Springfield, Illinois, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, brother Bob, and infant brother Michael.
Tom will be missed and forever remembered by all who loved him.
A memorial service will be held at St. Columcille Catholic Church on Saturday, January 18th at 11:00 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, www.heart.org, or to St. Columcille Catholic Church, 516 W. Jackson St., Sullivan, IL 61951.
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