Richard William Dean Sr.

Richard William Dean, Sr. passed away August 19, 2025, at Arco, ID at Lost River Medical Center. He was born on February 19, 1927, in Freeport, Illinois to Alvin and Dorthy (Griffin) Dean.

Richard graduated from Rockford West High School. After graduation, he joined the armed service, serving in WWII in both the Coast Guard and Navy, earning a Purple Heart. Richard enjoyed sharing interesting stories with friends and family about his service during war.

October 15, 1949, Richard married Ruth A. Shallcross, and lived in Rockford, Illinois where they had their two sons, Richard Jr. and Craig.

In 1955 Richard and Ruth lived in Westminster, Colorado for 20 years where they had daughter Valarie Kay. Richard was employed at Rocky Flats

In 1974 they moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho where Richard was employed 25 years at the INEL (Idaho National Engineering Laboratory).

Richard married Mary Martha Stringer-Olson in February 1984. Richard and Mary moved to Idaho Falls before moving to Arco in 1989.

Richard served numerous years on the Arco City Council. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 16 and Masonic Lodge, initially as a youth in the Order of DeMolay.

Richard was instrumental in having the USS Hawkbill submarine sail relocated to Arco, creating a museum that Richard gave tours for years.

He was preceded in death by his parents Alvin and Dorthy, wife Ruth, brothers Robert, Ray, and Donald, sisters, Dorthy and Joanne, sons Richard Jr and Craig and grandson James.

He is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Valarie (Joe), stepsons Robert (Cay), Thomas (Teresa), John Olson and stepdaughter Susan Olson. Grandchildren Karen, Stephanie (Chris), Bobbi (Brandon), Deanna (Sean), Tracey. Step grandchildren Ali, Audrey, Nathan, Payton. Richard also had 14 great grandchildren, 5 great, great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the nurses from Nuclear Care Partners and the staff at Lost River Medical Center for all their care and love for Richard.

A celebration of life service with military honors will be held and announced at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Anderson Family Funeral Home.