Dean Edward Ferris, 65 of Allegan, Michigan, passed away Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Born December 30, 1954 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, he was the son of MaryAnn (Conner) Ferris and the late Volney Dean Ferris. An Allegan High School Class of 1973 graduate, Dean went on to work for several companies in their maintenance departments. Since he had a gift for gab, he made friends easily and because of his genuineness, he maintained most of those friendships throughout his life. Maybe it had to do with his great storytelling techniques. He seemed to be able to capture everyone’s attention with his tall tales regarding the size of the deer (that got away), the great sale he saved on, or how big the vegetables were that he grew in his garden! Sometimes a short break was required since Dean dragged the stories out a bit. No matter what story though, he was always able to keep people enthralled with his tales. Dean was also an amazing cook who grew many of his own vegetables or loved going shopping to get the ingredients needed. Ice cream and candy bars always topped the list! Dean had a ritual of not going to bed before he was able to eat his bowl (sometimes large bowl) of ice cream. Dean had a big heart and his love for his family was foremost in his life. His exaggerated stories, great meals, and quirky rituals will be a missed presence in their lives. But we know he is watching out and just wishing he could share another story with them all.
Dean is survived by his mother, MaryAnn; his daughter, Lynsey (Jake) Born; his son, Brandon; his siblings, David (Lynda) Ferris, Anne (Dan) Brenner, and Doug (Stacy) Ferris; his two grandchildren, Layne and Bailey Born; his nieces and nephews, Adam (Ashley), Josh (Kim), Drew, Travis (Andrea), Jessica (Lars), Jacob, Conner and Lauren; along with many great-nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Volney Dean Ferris and his nephew, Michael V. Dean Ferris.
Dean will be laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery with a private ceremony. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.
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