Donald Ross Dean

Donald Ross Dean, age 79, of Greenwood, passed away after a short (and characteristically efficient) battle with cancer on April 5, 2025.

Don was born on December 2, 1945, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Donald E. and Jeanne B. Dean. He graduated from Cathedral High School in 1964 and served in the U.S. Army until 1967 where he taught the military some tricks on how to improve military time.

After his service, he joined Eli Lilly, where he worked for 30 years, retiring in 1997.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Sharon (Egler) Dean; his daughter Kristin Dean (Cindy Reed); three siblings; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.

Don was a humble man with a sharp wit, and a good heart. He might have had a killer poker face, but his jiggling leg was a tell that ruined any aspirations he might have had to be a professional poker player. A natural athlete, he loved golf — and was good at it, making him a much sought after team member for scrambles and best ball tournaments.

He was the kind of husband, dad, and friend who showed up. He was, simply, a good man. The world’s a little less fun without him.

There will be a graveside service on April 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Crown Hill National Cemetery Annex, 725 W 42nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46208. A reception will follow with location details distributed at the memorial.

In lieu of flowers, consider giving the kids in your family 20.00 at your next gathering. It’s what Don would do. Another option Don regularly supported was Doctors Without Borders.