Robert A. Dean Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Robert A. Dean, 95, of Traverse City passed away peacefully on July 27, 2022. Bob was born on October 24, 1926 in Grand Rapids to the late Robert A. and Lucy (Lather) Dean Bob was accepted into the US Army Air Corp cadet program, but because the war ended, his program was cancelled which led him to radio school. He attended Michigan State and graduated in 1950. That same year, he married Arlene V. Kropp. As a young man Bob took over the family business, Red Mill Lumber. At its height, the company had four stores and a truss manufacturing business. Bob was a member of the Rotary Club since 1958 and served as president of Rotary Charities in 1999-2000. He was instrumental in starting the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, Habitat for Humanity and several other organizations. Bob also served on the school board, planning comission, zoning board of appeals for Traverse City and Old Mission Peninsula and the Chamber of Commerce. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; two great grandchildren Faith and Hope Vanderford and brother-in-law William Cook. Bob is survived by his wife of 72 years, Arlene; their four children Linda (Leo) Stallman, Barb (Ed) Smith, Mary Kay (Bill) Archer, and David Dean; eight grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren; and sister Nancy Cook. Bob's legacy of devotion to his family, community and career will be celebrated by his family and friends for years to come. The family will honor his life privately.

Robert A. Dean

October 24, 1926 - July 27, 2022