Mike Dean was born on July 9, 1947, in Wichita, Kansas, to Roy Dean and Rose Blubaugh. The youngest in his family, Mike was known for his quick wit, humor, and teasing nature. He had a way of making people laugh, telling elaborate stories, and creating memories that would be repeated for years.
At 15, Mike met Iva Susan “Sue” Dean, who was 13. They married in 1979 and built a life and family together. Sue preceded him in death.
Mike graduated from Wichita High School and later attended the University of Arkansas. He nearly earned a degree in psychology, but decided to pursue his passion for food and open a catfish restaurant, combining his love of fishing and cooking.
Mike was a natural-born leader. In his work and in his life, he set goals, worked to accomplish them, and kept moving forward. In Mike’s world, giving up was never an option. He always told his children and grandchildren they could do anything they set their minds to—and he led by example.
Mike loved the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, boating, camping, wildlife drives, and time spent with his bird dogs were among his greatest joys. He was always eager to share his knowledge and deep respect for wildlife with those around him. Mike often told his children that they might not enjoy hunting or fishing, but he would not raise a child who didn’t know how.
Mike enjoyed loud music and often sang his favorite hymns, “Amazing Grace” and “The Old Rugged Cross.” Faith was important to him, and when offering advice, he often concluded, “Pray about it.” Mike was raised Catholic, while Sue was raised Methodist. Together, they attended Baptist church. Mike often said he thought it was idiotic that anyone could look at a sunrise, a sunset, or the face of a baby and not believe in God.
Mike later worked as a district manager for ISS in the Joplin and Springfield area. He believed in giving people a chance when they were trying to find their footing again in the working world. After the Joplin tornado, Mike set up his smoker in the ISS parking lot and fed anyone who came by. He asked for nothing in return except knowing that the people around him were fed and cared for.
Loyalty and caring for one another were central to Mike’s life. He always had his family’s back. If you were in the wrong, he would call you out—but if someone crossed you, Gramps would hold a grudge to the end and stand by your side. His loyalty to the people he loved was unwavering. No matter who you were, if you crossed someone he loved, he took it personally.
Mike loved having his family and friends gathered around him. Anyone who needed a warm meal or a place to stay was welcome in the family home. Growing up, there was often an extra plate at the table, just in case someone showed up.
Mike had a special relationship with every individual in his life. He will be remembered through endless stories about the time he spent with his family and friends. The lessons he taught, the ways he teased, and the memories he created will never be forgotten. Every child and grandchild shared a unique bond with him, and each knew they held a special place in his heart.
Mike passed away at home on October 5, 2026, after coming inside from feeding his bird dog, Sam. He passed while doing something he loved. His dogs were among his closest companions.
Survivors
Mike is survived by his children:
Danyel
Kenny
Susan
John
Logan
Brendan
He is also survived by 17 great-grandchildren. His grandchildren are listed with their parents:
Danyel and Brian Warne’s children: Daniel and Amy K. Warne de López
Kenny and Pricilla’s children: Destiny and Courtney
Susan’s children: MaKayla, Kahl, Kyla, Katelyn Gillispie, Gabriel, Colby, Abbigail Edge, James, and Kennalee Dean
John’s child: Jadyn Dean
Neighbors Tara and Mike Parsons, and their children, Tucker, Blayne, and Elyana
Mike also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins, and longtime friends who will miss him dearly.
Mike shared his love of reloading shells with his children. His final wish was to be reloaded into shells and go out with a “bang.”
Preceded in Death
Mike was preceded in death by:
His wife, Sue
His children, Jobi and Michael Paul
His siblings, Mary, Patricia, Kathy, Roy, and Stephanie
His great-granddaughter, Ella Mae
Jobi’s children were Shelby Hanks, Michael Uhl, and Leeah Uhl. Michael Paul’s daughter was Emmalee Dean.
Please join the family to celebrate Mike’s life on Saturday, November 7, 2026, beginning at 3:00 p.m., at 358 Heritage Road, Strafford, Missouri.
There will be games and fishing for the children, so we would love for them to bring their fishing poles. Gramps’ chicken noodle soup and chili will be provided. At dark, the celebration will conclude with a skeet shoot in Mike’s honor. Those who would like to participate are welcome to bring a shotgun.
The family will have a table of small items Mike and Sue collected over the years. Everyone is welcome to choose something to take home in his memory.
If you would like to share a story about Mike, please email his daughter Susan at susanjenna.3@gmail.com. The family would love to hear the stories that made Mike special as they celebrate his life.
