William Spencer Dean

William Spencer Dean, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and cherished member of the Visalia, California community, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2024, at the age of 80 in Visalia, CA. Born on August 10, 1944, in Oakland, CA to Charles William Dean and Bette Brummett Dean, William led a life rich in service, creativity, and devotion to family. Bill married Gale Earl on August 6, 1971 at the Oakland CA Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints and they were married for 53 years. Bill was a graduate of Mt. Whitney High School, class of 1963, where he had many interests and friends. He went on to attend College of the Sequoias and Brigham Young University. He served honorably in the U.S. Navy for four years, volunteering for two tours during the Vietnam War, one at sea and one in the city of Da Nang. He loved serving his country and finished his career in the U.S. Army National Guard unit in Visalia. Bill and Gale filled their home with love, laughter and five children...Elizabeth Minnich (Jared), Shauna Wood (Justin), Jacob (April Leach), Melissa Showly (Dennis), and Andrew (Janessa Unholtz). Bill was a proud Papa to his 23 grandchildren (18 grandsons and 5 granddaughters), and one great grandson. He leaves behind his wife, Gale, his sister Karen N. Dean, Sisters-in-law Diane Dean and Bernadette Earl, brother-in-law, Gary Earl, 7 nieces, 7 nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his younger brother Stephen J. Dean and his parents, Charles and Bette Dean. Bill was a man who loved God deeply, and his faith was central to his life. He taught his children the importance of worshiping our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, instilling in them values of kindness, compassion, service and fun. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, positivity, and creativity that will live on through his children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Graveside services will be held 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Friday, February 14th, 2025 at Visalia District Cemetery, 1300 W Goshen Ave, Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

William Spencer Dean

August 10, 1944 - December 28, 2024