Dean R Rainey

Dean R. Rainey, 99, formerly of Midland, but currently of Jackson, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2024 having lived a long and happy life. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Dean was born to Clement and Marjorie Cassell on May 11, 1925, in Oak Park, Illinois. He joined the US Army in 1943 at the age of 18 and served as a combat solder in WW11. He fought in France and Germany, was wounded and spent the rest of the war in a hospital in Scotland.

While recovering from his war wound, Dean met Florence E. Bunt at a USO Dance in Battle Creek. They married on May 4, 1947, and celebrated 73 wonderful years together before her passing in 2021. Together, they raised five sons.

Dean graduated from the University of Illinois School of Engineering and became a Professional Engineer. He worked as a Senior Project Manager at Commonwealth Associates for 27 years, held positions at Southern California Edison and Consumer Power, retiring in 1984.

Like many from The Greatest Generation, Dean and Flo worked tirelessly to provide for their family and ensure their five sons received a college education. In retirement, they traveled extensively, making memories across the US and Europe. They spent winters in Melbourne Beach, FL, for 35 years, where Dean enjoyed surf fishing and playing golf.

Dean’s true passion was golf, and he played 18 holes four times a week well into his 90s. He cherished golfing with his sons and was proud of his five holes-in-one. He was fortunate to golf at St. Andrews in Scotland and Pebble Beach, CA.

Dean was a generous family man who will be greatly missed. He is survived by his sons, Dean R. Jr. (Christine) of Melbourne Beach, FL, Robert (Mary Ann) of Horton, MI, David (Elizabeth) of Fallston, MD, Timothy (Judy) of Leominster, MA, and Douglas (Jennifer) of Newaygo, MI.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jennifer Mason (Joshua), Laura Sturgill (Cody), John David (Caitlyn), Patrick (Molly), Michael (Brooke), Hannah, and Matthew Rainey, as well as his great-grandchildren, Magnolia and Clementine Mason, Everly and Eliza Sturgill, Parker, Gleeson, Leona, Frances, Oliver, and Liam Rainey, and Amira King.

Additionally, Dean is survived by his goddaughter, Sharon Miles, and numerous nieces and nephews across the nation.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Emily, Elizabeth, Kelly, and all the staff at Countryside for making his final years happy and full of fun. They also thank Michelle and all the staff at Henry Ford Hospice House.

Please join in celebrating both Dean and Flo on Nov 20, 2024 for an 11:00am service at Watson Funeral Chapel with Chaplain Kyle Herrick officiating. Visitation will be held beginning at 10:00am until the time of service.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 19 from 4:00-7:00pm at Watson Funeral Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dean’s honor can be made to the American Cancer Society or an organization of your choice. Envelopes at funeral home.

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