Dean F. Mann

Dean F. Mann, 84, of Longview, Washington, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 8:01 PM, surrounded by his loving family in his home while under hospice care.

Born in Longview in 1940 to Al and Gladys Mann, Dean grew up alongside his brother, Dennis, in a nurturing environment that celebrated the outdoors. His childhood was filled with camping, fishing, huckleberry picking, and clam digging. An avid Boy Scout, he developed a passion for photography, spending hours in the darkroom he built with his father. Dean also enjoyed trapping and taxidermy, played the violin, and was a dedicated member of his high school football team, graduating from R.A. Long High School in 1958.

Following high school, Dean attended Lower Columbia Community College, where he earned his Associates of Technical Arts degree in 1960. He then proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1964, forging lifelong friendships during his time in active duty and the reserves.

In 1964, Dean met the love of his life, Mary Ellen, and they married on June 26. They moved to Seattle so Dean could attend the University of Washington, where he obtained his degree in Electrical Engineering in 1966. A devoted Husky fan, Dean often wore his UW hat with pride. After graduation, he and Mary Ellen returned to Longview, where Dean began a long and fulfilling career at Reynolds Metals (later Alcoa) in 1967, building many lifelong friendships before retiring at the age of 62 in 2002.

Dean was a dedicated family man, welcomed his first child, Lori (McKnight) Mann, in 1969, followed by his son, Christopher Mann, in 1973. He was known for his unwavering loyalty to his family, friends, and community. An active member of Longview Community Church, Dean volunteered for numerous programs, including the food bank and youth sports. He was always the first to lend a hand to neighbors in need. He formed relationships with a group of men who worked out with him at the YMCA, meeting for coffee after being at the YMCA multiple days per week. Dean even attended this coffee gathering with his son and daughter just over a week before he passed.

In addition to his community service, Dean enjoyed various hobbies, including pickleball, fishing, hiking, and camping. He cherished summer trips to Hood Canal with friends for over 25 years and summer outings with the grandchildren. Dean loved his annual hunting outings near Mt. St. Helens, which eventually included the wives for added comfort and camaraderie.

After retirement, Dean loved packing up the trailer with Mary Ellen and heading South. Palm Springs became their winter get-a-way each year. Meeting friends and enjoying the dessert winter activities. They enjoyed cruises to Alaska, Caribbean, Quebec to New York. They toured Ireland, Florida, the New England states to see the fall foliage and other US States. One of their most memorable experiences was a month-long RV trip to Utah to visit National Parks. In June, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at Sun River, Oregon, surrounded by family.

Dean’s unwavering love for Mary Ellen was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, showing his children and grandchildren the importance of faith and steadfastness.

Dean is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ellen; his brother, Dennis Mann; daughter Lori McKnight (John); son Christopher Mann (Amy); grandchildren Abbey Morgan (Kale), Jonah Mann, and Gwenylin McKnight; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

A Memorial Service will be held to remember Dean, Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Longview Community Church, 2323 Washington Way, Longview at 2:00 PM. In leu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Longview Community Church, Community House or the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.