C. Dean Miller died peacefully October 23, at Center Skilled Nursing Facility surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Rexford, Kansas, in 1929. He attended Graceland College for two years and subsequently enlisted in the Air Force. He was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base where he played on their baseball team, which won the world-wide armed services championship. He turned down the opportunity to play in the minor leagues for the New York Giants. He also played on the Lowry basketball team and played a benefit game against the Harlem Globetrotters.

Dean continued his education at Oklahoma State University where he met his first wife, Jean Attwood. They were married in 1954. After completing a doctoral degree at the University of Colorado, he accepted a facility position in the psychology department at Colorado State University. In his 27 years with CSU he also taught statistics for graduate students. Dean was a devoted husband and caregiver until Jean’s death in 1997.

Dean was an avid and successful fisherman, hunter, and lumberjack. He built a cabin in Red Feathers, square-danced in 48 states, and coached his three children, all of whom attended college on athletic scholarships. After retiring he started a business turning out beautiful wooden crafts.

Dean met Donna Afflerbach at a line dancing class and they were married in 2006. Together they danced many a night away. Donna also became his loving caregiver as his Alzheimer’s progressed in the last few years. Dean was a kind and mindful gentleman who worked hard, loved deeply and found enjoyment in what most people considered work. He was active in the Community of Christ and First United Methodist churches.

He was proceeded in death by his parents; brother, Jerry Miller; and sisters, Laverna Phillips and Onita Page. He is survived by his wife, Donna Miller; brothers, Herb Miller (Carol), Larry Miller (Sylvia), and Al Miller (Suzanne); and sisters, Marilyn Schmader and Beverly Garfield; son, Mark Miller (Lynn); and daughters, Deena Burford (Gary) and Nancy Miller; and seven grand children, Jake, Walker and Eric Burford, Michelle Dion, Nichole McCarthy, Elizabeth Miller and Logan Miller.

Dean had a gift for making others feel special and valued. He will be deeply missed. The family especially wishes to thank the staff at Mercer Commons and Center Skilled Nursing Facility for his kind and loving care. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. November 9, at the First United Methodist Church, 1005 Stover St. Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, First United Methodist outreach programs, or Intercultural Community Builders, where Dean was a founding board member, in care of Allnutt Funeral Service, 650 W. Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO, 80526.

Family and friends may visit the online memorial tribute at www.allnutt.com to leave condolences or a personal note for the family.