William R. "Bill" Dean, 74, of Shawnee, passed away Monday, November 17, 2014 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Bill was born March 5, 1940 to the late Robert and Thelma Dean in Albia, Iowa. He graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1958. After graduation, Bill attended Finlay Engineering College in Kansas City, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1961. On June 30, 1962 Bill married Judy Johnson. He retired from Kansas Gas Service in 2000 after 40 years of dedicated service. After his retirement, Bill went to work managing a Salvation Army Senior Living Community.

Bill's passion in life was his family. He enjoyed traveling all over on family trips and outings. Bill loved watching his grandchildren compete in their many endeavors and spending time with each of them. He also had a passion for sailing and his boat "The Moonlight Dancer". Bill was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church, where he served as an Elder, and was active with Christian Care and Stephen Ministries. He was also a member of the Kansas City, Missouri Woodturners.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Judy; two daughters, Kimberly L. White and husband Michael; Jennifer L. Holmberg and husband Pekka; a granddaughter, Emma K. Holmberg; three grandsons, Brayden J. White; Jordan M. White, Lars J. Holmberg; two sisters, Shirley Gorsuch and husband Robert; Linda Snoddy and husband Burnie; two brothers, David A. Dean and wife, Linda Sue; Thomas Dean and wife Judy.

Celebration of Life Services

A Celebration of Bill's life will be 10 a.m. Friday, November 21, 2014 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 9101 Lamar Avenue, Overland Park, KS.

Memorial Contributions

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Global Lutheran Outreach, Attn: Heiney Mission Support, 6709 Ficus Drive, Miramar, FL 33023 or to The Salvation Army, 3637 Broadway Street, Kansas City, MO 64111.