Carol G Dean

Carol G. Dean 98, resident of Petoskey passed away Monday, September 4, 2023, at Bay Bluffs.  She was born April 3, 1925, in Chicago where she spent her early childhood. When she was 8, her family moved to Plainwell, Michigan. She graduated from Plainwell High School in 1943 and attended Western Michigan University where she earned her degree in elementary education, graduating in 1947.

Carol married Harold Dean in 1946. After graduating from Western she got her first job at Bridge St. School in Plainwell teaching kindergarten. Her career continued when they moved to Marshall and to St. Joseph (Lincoln School). In 1968 she moved to Petoskey teaching first grade at Resort and Sheridan School, retiring in 1983.

She believed in the wonderment of childhood, imagination, and creativity. Her students (over 600) were special souls, and each had a story to tell. She enjoyed watching them grow in the classroom and beyond. Meeting them in town or reading about their achievements in the paper gave her happiness.

Carol’s creative spirit, dancing heart, joy, kindness, and infectious smile touched many lives over 98 years. The two lives she touched most were her husband Harold and daughter Kris. “Love is forever, Mama Bear.”

She enjoyed people, reading (especially poetry), dancing, old movies, variety of music, and the beauty of nature around the world and in her back yard. Her knitting created an array of colorful dishcloths. Strong faith guided her and the belief of kindness, forgiveness and gratitude for self and others. Chicago held a special place in her heart, and she shared many cherished family memories of her time there. She was a lifelong Chicago Bears fan. Memories of family/ friends and teaching sustained her time there. “The number one lesson I have learned from life is about kindness to others and self, forgiveness, understanding, humor, hope, and gratitude nourish a loving heart and person.”

Carol is survived by daughter Kris (Ken), and granddog Ezekiel. She was preceded in death by Harold and brother Val.

Memorials may be sent to the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society.

Private Graveside service by Rev David Behling.

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