Dean Leroy Thorne was born in Hood River, Ore. to parents, Earl and Una Thorne.
Dean served in the United States Navy for eight years as a Seabee during the Korean War conflict.
In October 1967, Dean exchanged wedding vows with Joan Zimmerman. The couple enjoyed over 50 years of happiness together.
Dean worked as a steel worker for 37 years, and retired from Schnitzer Steel. He also spent a short time as a technician for NASCAR and OARA. He loved racing, and took every opportunity he could to enjoy it.
Dean was also a HAM radio operator, Handle KB7KZV, and was good at building power and communication parts for these and CB radios.
Dean passed away in Portland. A graveside service with military honors will be held in Willamette National Cemetery. Dean is survived by his loving wife, Joan; son, Randy; and brother, Terry.