Donald Carl Dean passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, June 13, 2024. Don was born on August 12, 1934, to Carl and Olevia Grimshaw Dean in Beaver, Utah. Don's childhood was characterized by baseball games, hard work, and cherished friendships. As a beloved figure in his hometown, Donny was voted the most preferred man in his senior year at Beaver High School. In 1956, he married his high school sweetheart, Sonja Hollingshead, although the marriage later ended in divorce. Shortly after he married, Don served in the Army in Olympia, WA. It was an experience he fondly reminisced about throughout his life. During his service in the army, Don was known for his unparalleled work ethic. This led to rising through the ranks and assuming many leadership roles.

Don's passion for construction began in his early teens. That same passion culminated when Don (alongside Robert Peay) established one of the largest construction companies in the Utah Valley. Dean and Peay Construction became synonymous with building high-quality starter homes and apartments across the county. Eventually, Don expanded the venture into real estate and apartment rentals. Thanks to Don's guidance throughout much of his life, D.C. Dean rentals is still a thriving enterprise. Don worked in the business alongside his son Rob and office manager Sarah Weiss.

Throughout his marriage to Sonja they were blessed with three children, Heidi (Dan), Wendi (Pete), and Rob (Janell). He cherished his children and grandchildren, creating enduring memories through annual family vacations. Don's preferred vacation was one filled with warm sunshine made all the more evident by his frequent trips to the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Mexico. Don's homes in St. George and Mazatlan provided fun retreats for the entire Dean family.

Don's passions extended beyond family and work; he was an avid enthusiast of NASCAR racing. He owned two cars in the NASCAR West Division. He had a passion for restoring vintage cars and trucks. Don and Cherry would also travel throughout the western United States showcasing his collection of quarter horses. Don also found joy in watching and attending BYU football, basketball and Utah Jazz games. However, his true hobby remained his work, particularly building houses where he exhibited true craftsmanship. Don was also a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Don is survived by his grandchildren, Casey (Libbey), Ryan (Amy), Autumn (Justin), Miranda (Colby), Nicholas, Abbey (Brad), Chandler, Saige, Jadynn, and Ellie, as well as his great-grandchildren: Skyden, Kayleigh, Berkley, Saydee, Taggert, Tinsley, Sawyer, Harley, Navie, Lucas, Norah, Covey, Remi, Hazel, Axell, Hank, Dean, Bennett, and Charlie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sonja, his brother Leon, and sister Carol.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Walker Sanderson Funeral Home 646 E. 800 N. Orem. A viewing will be held from 11:00-12:30 prior to the service. Internment in East Lawn Memorial Hills.

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