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Memories of Dean T. Wickstrom

Sawnee Seigler...2nd cousin to Dean

Sawnee Seigler Mar 20, 2013

My Mom, DeAnn W. D'lean, was Dean's 1st cousin. We will miss him.
The icon reminds me of his Mozerati he owned when I was 4 years old. I loved his car so much I made a model of a yellow Mozerati and kept it near my bed.

2nd Cousin, Friend: Todd H. Wickstrom

Todd Wickstrom Mar 20, 2013

My Father was Newton H. Wickstom, Deans cousin. I often remember getting to go down to the beach to visit Dean and his family. My father had a great love for Dean and that whole side of the family. I remember talking with Dean and his wonderful personality. I was glad to see him when he came out to visit us at my Moms passing. It is hard to keep in touch with all of you. I hope at some point we can keep in touch. If anyone wants to ever contact me, just email me at twickstr@yahoo.com

Matt

Matt Duncan Jun 09, 2012

Dean and I were at the opposite ends of every poilitical argument. Dean loved to engage in such discussions as much for sport as for expressing his personal convictions. I imagine him asking St Peter if he is "still for Obama". I was surprised and delighted to find that the man I disagreed with so vehemently "on line" was such a gracious and good soul in person.
That is the good man I will remember and dearly miss.
God Bless You Dean, Happy Trails

Old Neighbor CDM

Cheryl Kasselmann Jun 09, 2012

Dear Toni and Blakley, How deeply sorry I am for your loss, and how wonderful your memories are. He will always live on in you hearts and never be far. His love for you was so strong and rich in depth that you will always feel his arms around you. Erik and I send our prayers for you two.
Cheryl K

Friend

Connie Paraskevin Jun 03, 2012

Dean, you'll be missed by many. Toni, Blakely, Rylen, my heartfelt sympathy. Love & hugs, Connie

Daughter too

Rylen Jun 03, 2012

Dean was my step-dad for nearly 4 decades. He was the most solid father figure in my life. He never referred to me as his step-daugher he always referred to me as his daughter.

Dean believed in the good in all things and lived by example. He taught me the power of the mind and was the first to point out "stinkin' thinkin". Over the years there were moments that I thought he was delusional in his ever positive outlook. However, I learned as I got older, that his approach; his undying positivity always endured and in the long run it won again and again and again.

Being home the thing I miss the most is the sounds of him rustling about in the early morning - singing or making other loud happy noises. I miss the neck and shoulder rubs. He gave one heck of a good neck and shoulder massage! I miss his laugh, I miss the way he engaged me in conversation and was always interested in what you had to say - even if we didn't agree.

So much of who I am has been influenced by my relationship with him. So I know that his spirit lives inside of me. I am grateful for that and am so grateful that he left this world on his terms, without sacrificing his beliefs and doing what he loved. I can only aspire to do the same.

Oh The Light

Adell Shay Jun 02, 2012

Exuberance. Fully in and as Light. Joy Wondrous curiosity. That's what comes instantly and blossoms when pondering Dean. Although my husband, Jay, and I met Dean less than a year ago, I felt the presence of Divine Destiny immediately following the first glance, even before the first hello. Sometimes, these things are more obvious than others. This time, the Light that eminated was unmistakable. I feel deeply grateful for every moment spent in his and Tony's company, for the bike rides on the beach and the walks, for the conversations of Spirit, for the Silence, and most of all perhaps, for the deep and lasting friendship that brought so much joy to my husband, Jay.
He made such an impression upon us in such a short conceptual window, that it is impossible to imagine how much he will be missed by those who have dearly loved him.
For Jay and I, He is with us every moment eternally. Where else could he possibly Be. For that, there is such tremendous gratitude.

Jay Stinnett

Jay Stinnett Jun 02, 2012

The Scientist
Dean Wickstrom was one of the most remarkable men I've ever met, possessing a joy and confidence that comes from a lifetime of awareeness of the presence of God.
I met Dean six months ago in a class of spiritual seekers and it was a fast friendship, in Spanish it’s called simpatico.

Dean had a lightness and grace about him, emanating from an experience of God.
He applied the same dedication and commitment he exemplified as an athelete in cultivation of his relationship with the One.

When Dean and I had business meetings, we meditated prior to speaking. We committed to making an experiment of allowing Infinite Spirit to direct the enterprise, instead of our finite minds. I assure you the experiment is a success.

Though his “ earth suit” will be missed, I will continue to rely upon his friendship and counsel.
The Dean I knew was quick to laugh and slow to anger, I never saw him laugh at anyone. He was always laughing at himself. He got the joke.
If God's first language is Silence, then the second is Laughter. If I ever want to find my friend, Dean, I know I can always find him in somewhere between the two.

Daughter

blakely wickstrom Jun 02, 2012

What I will remember most about my dad is his warm smile and his incredibly kind and calm nature. How he always did the "right thing" without even having to think about it. He was an amazing role model as his values and morals never wavered. He taught me right from wrong by example. He would drop anything to lend me an ear and whenever I needed him he was there with support and a positive outlook. He was a goofball, a prankster and an amazing story teller. He woke up in the morning singing (some god awful tune he made up, he had songs for EVERYTHING!), his yawns rattled the windows (that drove my mom nuts!), and his favorite ice cream: rocky road. He was my biggest fan (well, next to my mom) and was there for nearly all my events. Downing whatever lame promo hat or shirt became of them with pride for years.

My dad and I may not have always seen eye to eye and sometimes his beliefs frustrated and challenged me but ultimately I appreciate his was of thinking for opening my own mind, empowering me and and giving me the gift of independent thought.

I miss you so much already daddy and I still cant believe you are not just sitting in your office working away. I cant imagine my life without you, your support, insight and love. It breaks my heart to think about Christmas without your pies and that you wont be there if I ever get married or have a child of my own someday. I will take care of mom for you and try my best to remember that you are still here. I was so blessed to have you as my father you truly were an amazing man.

Gardner Powell (Jun 05, 2012)

Dear Blakely and Toni, I am so sorry to hear that you lost Dean. I wish I knew something to say that could help. I know he loved you, and I am glad you have each other to hold onto. I will remember to tell all my family how much I love them today. With love from your friend, Gardner

from Dick Bond - Claremont High 1959

Dick Bond Jun 02, 2012

I did not know Dean well but always knew who he was in high school - a cool and hansom guy ! . The memory which popped up when hearing of his passing is probably from the 10th grade. One morning Dean was relating his adventure of the night before. Apparently the folks weren't home and Dean and a buddy had "borrowed" one of the family cars and gone out cruising around. A rather bold and impressive accomplishment at age 15 to the possibly less adventurous!
My sincere condolences to his family. Rest in peace Dean and live on in the hearts of all who knew you!

Lover, Wife and First Mate.

Toni W. Jun 02, 2012

It is impossible to actually imagine my finite life without Dean in it. We have known each other for 41 years and married for 37. He was a wonderful friend, a trusting soul, that yes, did look for the good in everyone and everything. He was quirky and at many times obsessive. The one place he never wavered was in his absolute spirituality and love of God... He lived his life fearlessly, He loved the sun. He loved the Ocean, He loved his home. He loved being active . He worked hard, and he played hard. He LOVED to eat!!!!! Never gained a pound. Infuriating!! He loved his family and friends. Blakely was his pride and joy. His amazing child. He loved Rylen as his own. (the daughter he helped raise from the time she was 6 yrs old. Our darling Granddaughter Rhianna warmed his heart and, he always looked forward to his time with Simon (our son in law) who pretty much shared all his outdoor passions. Last but not least, He loved Me!!!.
We shared so many wonderful times, so many wonderful friends. Things were not always perfect, but he was always there when I really needed him. We somewhat balanced each other.
I was not ready to lose him. I will miss him for a long time, and , I will always love him.

A friend at one point in our lives...

Scott Wheaton Jun 02, 2012

I had forgotten Mr. Wickstrom throughout the years, not having had any contact with him. There were times we had together in high school, but they are a distant memory and not well served due to the decades since. Judging by your friends and lifestyle, you served your term well and you will be missed.. Had I known you lived close by, I would have made it a point to look you up. RIP, Dean. See you on the other side.

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