Dean A. Parkin

Dean A. Parkin, age 68, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026, at his home in Appleton, Wisconsin, surrounded by his family. He was a loving father, grandfather, and cherished friend to so many.

Dean was born on June 28, 1957, in Forest Junction, Wisconsin, to Jane Ott and Gene Behnke. Lovingly known as “Dean the Dream,” he was truly one of a kind- the kind of man who could never be replaced, never duplicated, and never fully explained to anyone who did not have the pleasure of experiencing life alongside him.

Dean built a successful career owning and operating his real estate appraisal business, where he formed countless lasting relationships over the years. Outside of work, he loved spending time with his children and friends, golfing with his son, watching sports, debating politics, reading his Bible, and enjoying reruns of Magnum, P.I. and Dallas. He also believed, wholeheartedly, that he could sing “Careless Whisper” better than just about anyone.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Jane Ott and Gene Behnke, and by his siblings, Doug and Sandy Parkin. He is survived by his children, Chantele and Jordan (Katie) Parkin; his beloved grandsons, Isaac, Nixon, and Josiah; his siblings, Debra Marks, Danette Eiting, Darryl (Shirley) Parkin, and Diane Parkin; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Dean also leaves behind many treasured friendships. Some spanned decades, while others were formed more recently, but the length of time never mattered to him. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel valued, seen, and loved. Among those friendships are Lezlie Green, Andy Reynolds, Gary Brandt, Elise Theobald, Peggy Conlon, and so many others fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him throughout his life.

The family would like to extend special recognition to Melissa Orth and Diane Parkin, whose years of nursing experience and compassionate care helped make Dean’s final days peaceful, comfortable, and filled with dignity.

To know Dean was to laugh harder, roll your eyes occasionally, hear at least one outrageous comment during every visit, and feel deeply appreciated. Whether through his humor, his brutal honesty, or simply his presence, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He leaves behind stories that will grow funnier with time, memories that will never fade, and a family who will carry his humor, strength, and love forward every day. There will never be another Dean Parkin, and that is exactly what made him legendary. Dean will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever impossible to forget.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

Lighthouse Youth Center Foundation, Inc.
2475 W. Roosevelt Drive Milwaukee, WI 53209

Donations may also be made online through the organization's website:

https://www.lighthouseyouthcenter.com/donate