John was a native of Glen Haven, Michigan, and graduated from Glen Lake High School with the Class of 1968. After graduation, he worked alongside his mother at her restaurant in Glen Arbor, known as The Cracker Box.

In 1971, John was drafted into the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. During his service, he attended trade school for electronics and received additional technical training through the Army. Following his honorable discharge, John moved to Colorado where he began teaching skiing, a passion and profession he continued for over 35 years.

John had an eclectic and impressive résumé throughout his lifetime, working in a variety of fields including mail delivery, electronics repair, construction trades, and many other skilled professions. He was someone who could fix almost anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

In 1995, John began studying Ishin Ryu karate and eventually earned his black belt, competing in numerous tournaments and competitions across the country. His dedication, discipline, and adventurous spirit carried through every aspect of his life.

Above all, John loved being a family man and cherished his role as a grandfather. He enjoyed social gatherings and had a gift for striking up a conversation with anyone he met. His warm personality, sense of humor, and genuine kindness made lasting impressions on countless people.

John will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him, including wife Echo Dean; children EJ (Faye) Dean, Sara (Len) Sanborn, Andrea (Cameron Luna) Dean, and Adam (Jillian Glass) Dean; grandchildren Frankie, Elliott, Bastian, Lyla, McKai, Jasper, and Nora.

A service will be held Saturday June 6th at Empire United Methodist Church at 11:00 am Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.