Dean was raised in Vernon County and graduated from Nevada High School Class of 1958. Following high school he served for seven years in the United States Airforce. Upon his return to Nevada Dean worked at the Nevada State Hospital for 30 years until his retirement. He was a member of the Osage Masonic Lodge #303 in Nevada, American Legion, and the NRA. Dean was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a craftsman, known for his bow and knife making, the art of flint-knapping, and for making and repairing guns.
Dean is survived by three children, Evanda Hogan and her husband Ken, Nevada, Talena Basham, Nevada, John Pilcher, Horton; four grandchildren, Jeremy Hogan and his wife Marlene, Nevada, Brandi Basham, Springfield, Amanda Carter and her husband Luther, Kansas City, Christa Basham and Taylor, Springfield; three great-grandchildren, Hanna and Kyle, Carter, Maleah; a great-great-granddaughter, Kinsley; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife Onie LaVena, he was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Edna Mae Olson; five brothers, Elmo Pilcher, Albert “Duck” Pilcher, Lenny Monroe Pilcher, Danny Pilcher, and Donny Pilcher.
Military Funeral Honors will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2019 with visitation following until 4:00 p.m. at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Memorials are suggested to Freedom Defender “Outdoors” for Disabled Veterans in c/o Ferry Funeral Home.
