Bloomfield
Alvin Dean
Aug. 13, 1937 - Sept. 17, 2015
On Sept 17, 2015, Alvin "Big Al" Dean, 78, passed away peacefully at home after a year-long battle with mesothelioma. He was surrounded by love at the time of his passing. He was a beloved Hubby, Dad, Papa, Uncle, brother, friend, co-worker, boss, employer and community member. He was born in Cuba , in 1937, living throughout New Mexico until his family settled in the Four Corners area in the late 1940s. While serving in the U.S. Air Force at Lakenheath Air Base, he met his precious bride in Cambridge , England , in 1958, at a dance they were married on Aug. 6, 1960, in Aztec.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 55 years, Beryl "Bunny" (Maries) Dean; son Charles Dean (Tami) of Bloomfield ; daughter Dorothy Offerman (Jason) of Edmond , Okla. ; grandchildren, Cooper, Mikaleh and Camren; sisters, Eva Mae Stuckman and Mary Lou Ross (Ray); sisters-in-law, Elaine Dean and Nedra Dean and numerous family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie and Eva Dean; brothers, Jessie, L.B., James and Billy Joe; sisters, Jewel Faye "Polly" Terrell, Laura Belle Perry; and daughter-in-law, Tami. Al worked in the oilfield for more than 60 years for Southern Union , Olman Heath, Weatherford and Enertek, and eventually owned his own business, Decano Inc, for 20 years. He was an oilfield surface equipment guru, entrepreneur, inventor (holding numerous patents), engineer, tinkerer, mechanic, story and joke teller, hunter, fisherman, fix-it guy, coach, host, Jack-of-all-trades and Master of Most. He was a pillar in the community, a true patriarch of the family, the "go to" guy for anyone. He was proud of his children and grandchildren, but humble about his own accomplishments. He deeply loved his family, playing "42" with his Vallecito family and traveling with his wife. He and Bunny went on numerous cruises, tours and drives visiting six continents and making memories. His favorite places were San Carlos , Mexico , Lake Powell and Vallecito , Colo. He loved his Friday afternoon coffee with friends. His laughter, crooked smile, friendly caring attitude, sense of humor, hugs and friendship will be greatly missed. Of all the things in his life, he was most proud of being married to the love of his life, Bunny. Their obvious love for one another was a shining example for all. He leaves behind a legacy of love and family.
A come-and-go celebration of life will be from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, at First Baptist Church , 200 W. Sycamore Ave. in Bloomfield . Please come ready to share food, fellowship, fun and laughter as we celebrate his life. Dress is casual.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.
Big Al's care is entrusted to the Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 E. Ute St. in Farmington , 505-325-8688.
Service Details
Saturday, September 26th, 2015 1:00pm, First Baptist of Bloomfield
Interment Details
Farmington Crematory