Arvel Dean Rotan, Jr.

Arvel Dean Rotan, Jr.-known to nearly everyone as Dean or simply "Deano"-passed away unexpectedly on May 9, 2025, in Allen, Texas, at the age of 58. His departure came far too soon, leaving a void that cannot be filled but a legacy that will always be cherished.

Born in Sweetwater, Texas, Dean was the son of Cheryl Rotan and the late Arvel Rotan. A proud Red Raider, he earned his Bachelor of Petroleum Engineering from Texas Tech University, later completing his MBA in Finance from the University of North Texas-proving that reinvention was always possible and worthwhile.

Dean's career was a testament to his relentless work ethic, sharp intellect, and drive to always grow and adapt. He began his professional journey logging oil wells for Schlumberger Well Services, then transitioned to environmental work at Ecology & Environment, contributing to EPA Superfund projects. Recognizing the need for a new direction, Dean went back to school and earned his MBA in Finance from the University of North Texas-a decision that launched the next chapter of his career. He was hired by American Airlines out of his MBA program and later held leadership roles at The Gap and Dr. Pepper. In recent years, Dean found not only his stride but also his work family as a regional CFO at Freshpoint. It was the job he had always hoped for-filled with purpose, people he respected, and a vision for the long haul.

But Dean's true passion was never found in boardrooms or balance sheets. It was with his family-his greatest joy and proudest achievement. Whether hiking through a national park, playing a round of golf, reading the latest headlines, or simply hanging out with his family, Dean found deep happiness in the everyday moments. He made time to be present, to laugh, to learn, and to love.

Dean is survived by his loving wife, Becky Rotan, and their daughter, Paisley Rotan, the light of his life, and Lily "Paddo" - the bestest cat ever. He also leaves behind his mother, Cheryl Rotan, and his sisters, Pam Cummings and Melissa Granberry. He is preceded in death by his father, Arvel Rotan. He is also survived by loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members who adored him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Nature and Retreat Center at Oak Point Park (5901 Los Rios Blvd., Plano, TX) at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 22nd. Breakfast tacos will be served-one of Dean's favorites. And don't dress up-seriously. Dean would want you in shorts or whatever you feel most comfortable in. Bring your stories, your laughter, and your love. Let's send him off the way he lived-with warmth, humor, and realness.

In lieu of flowers, honor Dean by doing what he did best: love your people. Go to dinner, take a hike, watch a movie, hug tight, and never miss the chance to say "I love you." Dean lived large and loved deeply. Celebrate each moment. Life is short, but love makes it infinite.