Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
John Emerson Dean was born Nov. 14, 1950, and passed away on Oct. 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, adventure, and family.
Throughout his life, John wore many hats and built a life through hard work and determination. He worked as a contractor, logger, truck driver, and property developer, always willing to take on a challenge and work with his hands. His many endeavors reflected his independent spirit and his ability to turn hard work into opportunity.
John had a love for adventure and the outdoors. He earned his pilot’s license, enjoyed hunting and fishing, traveling, and had a special appreciation for rodeo. Whether he was behind the controls of an airplane, out in the woods, on the water, or enjoying the excitement of rodeo, John found joy in living life on his own terms.
John was married first to Debbie Lutgen, and together they welcomed their daughter, Jewell Rae Dean. Later, he married Sandra Hannon, who brought a daughter Tanya Dean into the family. Together, they raised their family and shared the experiences and memories that shaped their lives. Family was an important part of John’s life. He leaves behind four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, each carrying forward a part of his family’s story and legacy.
John is survived by his loving companion, Mary Lou Tisler; his daughters, Jewell (Ben), and Tanya; his grandchildren, Deanna (Brett), Josey (Jace), Bryan (Acacia), and Emma; his great-grandchildren, Chloe, Carter, Jace, Oakley, Teagan, and Tucker. Brothers Jim (Lonnie), Jerry (Mary), Jaylin (Ellen) and Sister Jennifer (Warren) and many nieces and nephews. John is preceded in death by his parents Philip and Veneta “Sweeter” Dean and his grandparents Fred and Veneta (Odle) Steinbach and George and Tressie (Gerbing) Dean.
John will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his adventurous spirit, his love of the outdoors, his willingness to help those in need, his generosity and the experiences that made up his life. Though he is gone, the memories he created, the life he built and lived, will remain with those who carry his memory in their hearts.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Columbia Gorge News, Nov. 4, 2026
To plant a tree in memory of John Dean as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
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