Ray Dean

1927 - 2018

DEAN - Ray, Passed away peacefully at home on May 25th in the company of his family. Born February 28, 1927 in Detroit, MI. Ray was a proud WWII Navy Veteran with active duty in the Pacific, followed by service with the Marine Corps and their Band, where he was known as "Ray Dean, the Singing Marine". He worked most of his life as a building engineer, but his love of song and performing lead to a second career as a professional singer. After retirement, he sang with several bands, proudly performed for the Nassau County Police Department, and with his beloved Golden Tone Orchestra late into his eighties. A man filled with appreciation for life and gratitude for the smallest of pleasures, he loved chatting with strangers, bursting into song in diners and doctors' offices, and boasting of his Marine Corp toughness. Ray loved attending church, his associations with the police and active Marines, the Mets and Cowboys, and his friends at the Venus Restaurant. A blessing through 48 years of marriage to his devoted wife Emma. Wonderful father to Peggi, Karen, Ray, Billy and Jim, and children-in-law Melany, Arlissa, Murphy and Steve. Inspirational Grandpa to Raylee, Emmy, Genny, Ben, Tim and Tom. Please consider a contribution to the USO in his memory.