Dean Gardner Smith June 11, 1935 - August 31, 2012

Dean was born in Bozeman, Montana, to parents Vaughn and Mary Smith. He lived in Haver, Lewistown, and Helena, Montana, and while still in the lower grades they moved to Oregon. They first settled in Corvallis, then moved to Eugene. Dean lived in Eugene while attending junior high and high school. Eventually Dean went to work for the Weyerhauser pulp mill in Springfield. He worked at the Weyerhauser plant for 35 years.

Dean and his wife, Mary, planned to retire in the Sisters area. They bought property near Sisters, and planned to build a log home. It took several years to go from the plans to having the house ready to move into. Dean and Mary did much of the work on the house themselves, only hiring help for the things that really required it.

Dean loved to spend time in his garden. During the last few years he enjoyed going to Sisters for lunch, and visiting the townspeople. He became interested in quilting, and the business of selling the quilt patterns his wife designed. The two of them traveled to quilt shows all over the Northwest, selling the patterns, etc. Dean loved talking to people, showing fabrics, etc. When at home he liked to go into his sewing room to make quilts, vests, etc.

He is survived by his wife Mary; stepchildren Deanne Dement, Brian Dement, and Dana Dement; daughter Roxan; brother Daniel; and sister Marilyn.

He died peacefully at home in the log house he built. A celebration of life will be held in memory of Dean at the family home, 16898 Ponderosa Cascade Dr., Bend (near Sisters) on Saturday, September 15, at 1 p.m. A reception will follow the celebration of life. Donations may be made to Partners in Care Hospice, 2075 N.E. Wyatt Ct., Bend, OR 97701.