Dean Alan Pospesel, 67, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and dear friend to many, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026 surrounded by love at his home in Wayzata, MN.

Raised in Southwest Minneapolis, Dean graduated from Southwest High School in 1977 and Gustavus Adolphus College in 1981, where he played hockey and, most importantly, met the love of his life, Jeanette. A natural salesman, he built a career that took him and his family across the U.S. and abroad to Singapore. Always full of ideas, Dean found great joy in bringing Deano’s Parkas to life during his later years, a passion project that his children are proud to carry forward in his memory.

A lifelong competitor, Dean loved playing and coaching sports and brought enthusiasm to everything he did. He enjoyed gathering people around the table, sharing good food and wine, filling the room with music, and spending days boating or biking around the lakes. Whatever the occasion, his greatest joy came from sharing it with the people he loved.

Family and friends will remember Dean’s unmatched energy, generous heart, his ability to turn even a brief exchange into something meaningful, and the way he left people feeling more hopeful and confident in themselves.

Dean had a rare gift for finding the perfect words in the moment. Whether delivering a heartfelt speech, offering an impromptu pep talk, raising a memorable toast, or holding court with one of his signature riffs, he effortlessly blended eloquence, warmth, and wit. He made people laugh, drew them into meaningful conversation, and made ordinary time together feel special.

After the tragic passing of his wife, Jeanette, in 2006, Dean gave this way of living a name: “Make Ordinary Moments Special,” or M.O.M.S. In her honor, M.O.M.S. became a guiding principle for how he raised their children, cared for those around him, and embraced each day. Even through life’s greatest challenges, Dean always showed extraordinary strength, optimism, and resilience.

Dean will be forever in the hearts of his children, Cole (Allison), Ava Daly (Patrick), Blaire Housh (A.J.); his four grandchildren; James, Charles, Dean, and Lucy; and many other loving relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanette; his parents, Daniel and Dolores; his parents-in-law, Roger and Joyce Wayne; and other cherished family members and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, August 10, at the Church of St. Therese in Deephaven, MN, with visitation beginning one hour prior, and luncheon following the service.