Bruce Edward Dean

Bruce Edward Dean, 71, of Little Cooley passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 6, 2014 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Erie and was the son of the late John Dean and Doris Ludwig Dean Freebourn. He grew up spending time on his grandparent’s farm in Little Cooley and in Erie with his mother and stepfather James Freebourn. He was a 1961 graduate of Strong Vincent High School in Erie. He enjoyed working on his farm for over forty years selling sweet corn, produce and hay. He was known as the “Corn King” and he invented his own brand “Dean’s Delicious.” He was a gifted cabinetmaker for many years. He played the guitar and several instruments and played in several bands for many years. He loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He spent all of his life hunting and fishing with his family and with his dog “Buddy.” He is survived by his wife Rosemary whom he married on May 28, 1982. One son, Donald Dean and his wife Java of Little Cooley. Three daughters; Deborah Humes of Harrisburg, Beckie Bradley of Union City, and April Linz and her husband David of Meadville. One Stepdaughter, Amy Beck and her husband Doug of Townville. Sixteen grandchildren; Doug, Tai, Brittny, Darin, Jeff, Kristen, Corey, David, James, Shaun, Matthew, Jordan, Branden, Shannon, Bradley, and Dillon. Three great-grandchildren; Luna, Jazlynn and Shelby. Two brothers; Jerry Dean and his wife Carol of Erie and Don Britton and his wife Chris of Harborcreek. And several nieces’ nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, John Dean, mother, Doris Freebourn, stepfather, James Freebourn and stepson, Jon Tillotson. Willis-Arnold Funeral Home of Townville is handling arrangements. There are no calling hours. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 9 at 2:00 PM at Little Cooley United Methodist church with Pastor Mary Stewart officiating.