Obituary of Dean Robert Dill

Dean R. Dill, 72, of Buchanan, passed away on Friday, April 7, 2023, at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids.

On a cold January day in 1951, Dean Robert Dill was born to the late Robert and Gertrude (Markham) Dill in Niles, Michigan.

He graduated from Buchanan High School in 1969. Dean continued to call Buchanan his hometown until his passing. On March 19, 1971, he married the former Sherrie Ritter.  Together they had two sons, Nicholas, and Bryan. Even though the marriage did not last, they were able to eventually develop a friendship that lasted until her passing in 2020.

Dean was a longtime member of the Buchanan Moose Lodge 449, where he served in many capacities, from a Jr member all the way to Pilgrim Degree, which was the highest honor given to a member. Dean was his sons' greatest advocate, he believed in them beyond all else. He enjoyed being with family above all else, and when his boys married, their spouse and children became his own, he had no steps.

As a sports fan, he had his favorite teams; Notre Dame football, Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers, and the Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed driving a new vehicle as often as possible, a few of his favorites were his Ford Fairlane, Ford Gran-Torino, and his black Chevy pick-up.

He was preceded in death by his parents, former wife Sherrie Bankston, and his beloved German Shepard Barney.

Dean is survived by his sons, Nick (Brenda) Dill of Dowagiac; Bryan (Heather) Dill of Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, eight grandchildren, Alana, Ethan, Collin, Garrett (Chelsea), Gabby (Jake), Gretchen (Jake), William and Jacob; four great-grandchildren, Phoenix, Mack, Lilly, and Gwen; along with his brother, David (Debbie) Dill of Buchanan.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 21, 2023, at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 521 E, Main St. Niles.  A time of visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Buchanan.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be directed to the Buchanan Moose Lodge 449.