Jack Lowrie Dean, born November 8, 1939, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2025, in the loving presence of his family.

Jack was born in Traverse City and grew up on his family's cherry farm in Williamsburg, Michigan. He attended the Yuba School for his primary education. He received his secondary education at Traverse City Central High graduating in 1957. After high school, Jack was a student at Northwest Michigan College before transferring to Michigan State University graduating with a BA in 1961.

In 1961, Jack married the love of his life, Nancy Kay DeTour, of Traverse City.

Jack spent his working years as a secondary school teacher of history, American government and, in the mid-1970s, developed a new course entitled Comparative Religions. Jack had always been drawn to the study of different religions, a passion he culminated with a sabbatical at the University of Hawaii where he earned his second master's degree.

Jack coached several high school sports including basketball, cross country and track. Most of his teaching career was spent in Flushing, Michigan. During his summers off from teaching, Jack worked the family cherry farm until his retirement.

Jack decided teaching was the career for him because it gave him the freedom to farm in the summers and to coach as well as teach during the school year.

Jack enjoyed golfing (especially the three holes in one), fishing with his brother Scott, traveling with friends and family, and watching his beloved Michigan State Spartans and Detroit Pistons basketball teams. He will be remembered by all as one of the kindest people they have ever known.

Jack was predeceased by his brother John, son Jon and parents Lowrie Dean and Vernice (Hanna) Dean. Jack is survived by his wife of 63 years Nancy (DeTour) Dean, his brother Scott Dean (Carol), daughter Kimberly Coran (Jeffrey), granddaughters Susan Fuller (Joshua) and Jonna Coran, great-grandson Max Fuller and countless family and friends who knew him as "Uncle Jack".

A private family celebration of Jack's life will take place at a later time.

Jack's family would like to thank the staff at Meadow Valley Assisted Living for the loving and compassionate care they provided in Jack's final days.

Donations in memory of Jack can be made to Munson Healthcare Hospice, Traverse City, Michigan.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com