Dean Alva Ketelsen

I met Dean through our work at the Kitt Peak Visitor Center. While not a close friend, I knew he loved cats, as do I. Cats frequently appeared in his posted images. Dean was a prolific poster of images and videos relating to astronomy and atmospheric phenomena, especially of Kitt Peak. He was a relaxed, enjoyable, experienced presenter with a wealth of astronomical information that Kitt Peak visitors found so very pleasurable. Cosmic adventures Dean.

It's been probably 40 years since Dean and I met. Although we shared interests in optics, photography and amateur astronomy, his warm friendship will never be forgotten. Truly, Dick Buchroeder and George The Cat (actually, my second George; Dean adopted the first George when I moved into an apartment and George wouldn't put up with it!)

My Dean. My beloved brother in law. My living friend. Maj Johnson Williams

On behalf of the TIME HEALERS community, we want to express our deepest condolences to Dean Ketelsen's family and loved ones. While Dean may not have been a part of our community, we recognize the importance of family connections. Please know that our thoughts and support are with you and your community during this difficult time. #timehealers

I first met Dean at his and Melinda's wedding reception through a good friend. We saw them at get togethers...he came to my house with his telescope couple of times. Got to know him better when Melinda and my hubby were losing their battles against cancers. We grieved together and celebrated their lives. I will celebrate Dean's life well lived with all of you who can attend in Oct. Great guy and friend to all if us.

Lovely. Thank you so, Roger. (and now I'm crying again) -- Cary

I will alwaya miss Dean. A good friend to botch Wendee and me. May he rest in peace and travel amongst the stars.

Was so fortunate to meet Dean at Kitt Peak when I was the Volunteer Coordinator. Besides being an employee, Dean also offered tours of the grounds on his own free time to our many visitors. Dean dazzled the crowds with accessible knowledge of the heavens. His photography was a mainstay at Kitt Peak for decades, we sold postcards, calendars and more with his images. Since 1993 I have gone on observing runs with Dean all over Arizona and New Mexico, from the Chiricahuas to Empire Ranch to his...