Richard E. Dean, known affectionately as "Dick" by his family and friends, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2023, at the age of 88. He was born on August 11, 1935, in
Cape May Court House, New Jersey, and as a child moved to
Avalon, New Jersey where he lived the rest of his life, purchasing from his parents the same home he grew up in and raising his own family there. He leaves a legacy of love, service, and community commitment.
Dick lived a full and vibrant life as a lifetime resident of Cape May County. He was a family man through and through, a cherished patriarch to his children-Theresa Ann Dean, Richard Edward Dean (Lisa), Robert Martin Dean (Kathleen), and Michael Allen Dean (Lori). Dick was also a beloved brother to Franklin A. Chew (Rosemarie), a doting grandfather to seven grandchildren, and a proud great-grandfather to seven great-grandchildren. While the loss is profound, his spirit lives vibrantly through his extensive family. His love story with his predeceased wife, Elizabeth Jane Dean, remains a fond chapter in the family's history, along with the cherished memories of his late parents, Harvey and Lillian Hewitt Dean, his sister Alice Ames, and brother Harvey Dean, Jr.
Dick proudly served his country with two years of active duty and four more in the reserves in the United States Army. Back home in Avalon, he established and operated the respected Richard Dean Plumbing and Heating, earning the trust and reliance of the community.
His dedicated service to the community was further reflected in his involvement in local politics; Dick was an esteemed member of the Avalon Borough Council from 1987 to 2019, serving six terms as Council President. He was integral on Public Safety, Public Works, and Planning/Zoning Committees. Notably, he was part of the proactive group that secured beach-replenishment funds before Superstorm Sandy struck, thus protecting his beloved hometown.
Dick was also a life member of the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department, where he devoted 21 years as chief. He was also a life member of the New Jersey State Fireman's Association and a past member of the Avalon Fishing Club.
An enthusiastic outdoorsman, Dick found joy in fishing, crabbing, and clamming. Later in life he could be found sweeping the beaches with his metal detector, in pursuit of hidden treasures. To those who knew him, Dick exemplified kindness, friendliness, and selflessness, touching the lives of many with his gentle demeanor and genuine care for others.
Dick was also known to his closest friends as having a superior sense of humor. He was ever one to dish out or appreciate a well-placed zinger, but he was never mean-spirited and took as well as he gave. He also enjoyed playing horseshoes and shooting darts with his brother and their friends when the fish weren't biting, or the weather and crowds kept them landbound.
Richard E. Dean will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. His remarkable contributions to his family and his community ensure that his memory will endure for generations.
Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 3344 Dune Drive, Avalon, where visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Clermont. Memorial donations may be made to the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 311,
Avalon, NJ 08202.