Dean is a Marine Corps veteran, the son of a WWII Army Air Corps pilot, the father of two active-duty Marines, has a brother who is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel and another brother who is a retired Air Force Master Sergeant. He is a passionate advocate for active and veteran military members.

Dean retired from Target after 38 years and enjoys travel, the outdoors and volunteering. In addition to serving as PBYR board secretary, Dean volunteers with Plymouth Police as a Reserve Officer, is a foster home and dog exerciser for Can Do Canines assistance dog training center and serves on the board of a faith-based nonprofit supporting a 200+ student school in Ethiopia.