Philip B. Dean

– Philip B. Dean, 71, it is with deep sorrow that the Deans announce the sudden passing of the patriarch of our family. Philip B. Dean was born in San Gabriel, California on May 13, 1949. It was Friday the 13, and the "Lucky Baby" made the local newspaper represented by the iconic flying stork, holding up the newborn by his diaper. Phil was the son of Benjamin Palmer Dean and Joan L. Dean. Phil Dean was truly a remarkable and inspirational man. He was recognized by the city of New London as a Good Samaritan for his intervention during an assault that was taking place in the street on March 28, 1989. Phil was seriously injured while trying to protect another person. His memories and indelible spirit will live on forever in the hearts of many.
Phil graduated from Thames River Valley College, and he began his career in 1972 as an electronic technician at the Naval Underwater Systems Center, in New London, CT. He was recognized over the years for his distinguished accomplishments and service with numerous awards related to his work with antennas for the communication between submarines. His work sent him traveling across the world for many top secret projects while working for the Government. In 2004 Phil retired as computer technician after 34 years with NUSC, and then he founded the Computer HQ. Phil was an entrepreneur. He built, and repaired computers for more than 15 years at the HQ.
Phil was a powerful force in physical pursuits such as: running, swimming, bicycling, surfing, scuba diving, downhill skiing, barefooting and tennis. He was also a very good chess player, and he loved science. He cherished his vacation time spent with family members on Lake Winnipesauke, NH. He was an elite, long distance runner and completed multiple marathons, including the Boston Marathon. He went on to become a triathlete and relished competing in many triathlons. Phil founded the Woodstock Memorial Day 10K Road Race in 1980, and acted as the road race director for many years. Phil had an illustrious career as a world class barefooter, and he competed in and placed in the nationals and world champion barefooting tournaments.
Phil leaves behind his sister, Penelope Dean and his brother, C. Ronald Dean and his wife Linda. Phil leaves his three children, Kathy Gustavsen and her husband Jim, Jen Dean Brown and her husband David, and Philip B Dean II. He also leaves his niece, Venessa Dean, nephew, Craig Dean, and his two nieces, Katherine Brede and Elizabeth Dean, and numerous cousins, including William Jouney. Furthermore, he leaves his four beloved grandchildren, Austin Dean, Abby Gustavsen, Alivia Dean, and Tessa Brown.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with Phil Dean's family on Saturday, October 16, 2021 from 11:00am to 12:00pm in the Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church Street Putnam, CT 06260. Followed by a Graveside Service at 12:30pm in the Woodstock Hill Cemetery, in Woodstock. And following that at 1:30pm, there will be a Celebration of Life Party in the Putnam Lodge of Elks at 64 Edmond Street Putnam, CT 06260. For memorial guestbook please visit www.gilmanandvalade.com as well as the upcoming details on Phil's funeral. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to theheartfoundation.org.