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Dean Lobbe
Dear Friends of Dean
Life can change in a heartbeat. It can be a cliché saying but when we experience it personally, it grips hard at our heartstrings.
Dean’s life was cut way too short on Wednesday 19 of April.
We are all in shock and grappling with the magnitude of this life changing event. We would like to thank you all for the outpouring of support, we have felt incredibly embraced in this time when we need to go slow, grieve and begin to adjust.
This page is dedicated to Dean, for you all to share your memories of Dean walking alongside you. These stories will encourage us all as we adjust and keep his legacy alive within. Share as much or as little as you feel comfortable because Dean loved nothing more than sharing events and life changing experiences with those around him.
Be kind to yourselves as you navigate your own journeys of grief. It will take time; it will come in waves. It may feel that the pain will never go away and that life will never be the same. We encourage you to reach out to those people in your life that are closest to you, and if they are hard to find, make sure you let us know in some way. Emotions are not meant to be suppressed. Go carefully and gently. Love to you all.
Please note:
The immediate family will have a private gathering.
The date for a larger gathering, that will be a celebration of Dean’s life, is listed below.
Joycelyn and Family
A Celebration of Dean
Service Date: Friday - 26th May, 2023
Service Time: 7.00am
Service Address:
Paddle out at Cozy Corner Beach – Torquay
Service Location: View Map
Service Date: Friday - 26th May, 2023
Service Time: 9.30am
Service Address:
OneHope Baptist Church
4-32 Province Boulevard, Highton
Service Location: View Map
Service Stream: View Live Stream
I am so sad to read of Dean’s passing.
My heart is hurting for you and the kids.
I was looking on line to reach out and talk to him. I came across this post. I am so sorry.
I will always remember how Dean ripped me out of my comfort zone and believed I could be better.
Thank you Dean for all you have taught me! I will miss you.
PS I worked with Dean at YFC in Geelong
Joycelyn, Jess, Michael, Emilie and families
Our deepest deepest sympathies as you grieve the loss of a great man. Loved by many. He had such a servant heart and would journey alongside people in a very special way. I have fond memories of our time at family camps of him – many bus trips and yes, they ended with icecream stops that he generously funded. I remember the evening walks we as a camp would participate in that he would lead. I do these walks myself now, and think of him as I do them. I cannot fathom the loss that you will all be experiencing but I am grateful there is our Father in Heaven who knows your pain who has His Spirit going before, behind, beside you all in these days ahead. May you know the real comfort of the Holy Spirit in these days and nights ahead. All our love, Jeff & Michelle Benson
To Joycelyn and family, I along with many others share in your grief and sadness at this time.
Nothing was too much trouble for Dean. Many years ago while kayaking at Coogoorah Park in Anglesea I dropped my glasses in the water. Dean came back with goggles and snorkel and recovered them for me.
May God’s love and comfort be sufficient for each of us in our mourning.
It’s been over ten years since I last saw Dean, but I’ll never forget the generosity and kindness he showed me. The last thing Dean ever told me was to “always look on the bright side of life” and I carry that with me, even now. My sincere condolences to Joycelyn, Jess, Michael and Em.
I’ve really struggled to find the words to honour this man. Dean meant alot to me during my time in Anglesea and I’ll never forget it. He met a girl who was crazy, troubled and outgoing but then turned quite shy and defensive. It was a rollercoaster couple of years and Dean supported me the whole way through, I really wouldn’t be here today without his efforts to keep me alive and safe. The encouragement and tough love when I needed it are things I’ll always remember. Thanks for being a man that I knew I could always count on. Praying for the family as they all navigate their way through this unexpected grief. All my love xx
Dear Dean’s family and friends,
Sending heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers to you all…
May he forever rest in peace and watch over you always…
Comfort, peace and strength to get through this difficult time… Much love and hugs
Natalie..
Dear Joycelyn and family, I was truly inspired and touched deeply by the celebration today of Dean’s life of impact and serving of others. Myself and the team at Your Dream School Programs are truly honoured to be even a small part of the extraordinary life that Dean lived. Our only regret is that he only just joined our Dream Team and I am sure in that small amount of time, he would of made an incredible impact in the lives of the students at Aireys Inlet Primary School. We will hold all of you in our prayers and belief that Dean’s legacy and impact is eternal. God bless.
If everyone got together and combined all the pieces of himself that Dean gave away, you could make seven Deans. His impact is immeasurable
A friend introduced me to Foundation 61. Cam assessed my suitability for becoming a volunteer, but it was Dean who mentored me. I don’t think he did that because it was his job or was asked to, but because he knew it would help me find my feet and help me become useful. This continued all through my first year. On my first night shift, Dean also slept over, showing me how it was done.
Towards the end of my first year I got married and moved house. I had a number of friends who could have helped me if they hadn’t been sick or injured, so I asked Dean if it was something the boys at Foundo could help me with. He said yes, then immediately took charge of the move, and gave up a Saturday to get it done. It was exactly what I needed.
I sat in on classes once a week for more than a year. I learned a lot, from Dean and Cam and Rob, but it was Dean who again made sure it worked for me as well as for the boys and who valued my contributions of life experiences.
I was disappointed when Dean moved on from Foundo. No offence to other staff, but he was the most important person there for me, the one who made it work more than anyone. I missed seeing him regularly in the last year and I will really miss not seeing him at all.
Dean was a talented, generous and capable man with a very big heart.
To dear Joycelyn, Jessica, Michael and Emily,
We send you our deepest sympathies at this sad time with the loss of your dear husband, father and grandfather.
Dean was near and dear to us throughout his fruitful life.
We regret not being able to be there to celebrate a wonderful, true Christian man’s life.
Dean truly was the ‘great man’ as he served with courage, vigour and commitment to his Lord and Saviour.
We were blessed to fellowship, work with and have fun throughout this great man’s life.
We, like many were shocked and saddened the day the Lord called him home.
God’s ways are higher than our ways and we do not always understand. But in faith we know, for those who know the Lord will fellowship with this man for all eternity and that’s a certain promise.
My memory of Dean was when he was working on the dolphin boat is that he was never afraid to deal with the most challenging of people. As he was in all of his work places. He had a heart for all people no matter what, showing love and compassion.
From your brothers and sisters in Christ,
Rob, Jen, Gayle, Sapphire, Mariah and Joel and families xxxxx
Firstly, as a ministry team, Sports Chaplaincy Australia wishes to express its deepest sympathy and offer of support to Joycelyn and Deans wider family.
He was an outstanding chaplain and a true ambassador for SCA. Dean was always ready to step into any situation and care for clubs experiencing tragedy.
Personally, Dean was a wonderful support to me in my SCA role as the “ go to “ person in his region. Not only that but his encouraging random texts to remind me of his prayers and support were always perfectly timed.
Heaven has welcomed a true servant of God.
I got to know Dean when I worked with him at GenU.
I remember him as someone who always had time for anyone. He was always interested in really getting to know those around him. He listened to what you had to say and he remembered what you told him.
Dean spoke of his wife and family often and it was obvious he was a real family man.
I remember when I worked on a snow camp with him and it was his wife’s birthday, he called her and got the whole group to sing happy birthday for her.
When I left the company, Dean wrote me a really thoughtful, handwritten letter and bought me a gift – he told me he thought of the idea for the gift after a comment he remembered me making months earlier.
My sincerest condolences to Dean’s family – I hope you are able to find some comfort in knowing the impact Dean made on the live’s of those around him ❤️
Knowing Dean for many years through work, family and community connections has always given me such joy.
Being able to work alongside him at Anglesea Football Netball Club, sharing our love for people, our community, the club and Christ will always mean so much. A look and a smile from Dean was sometimes all that was needed. These memories and the legacy of a kind and generous man will remain in our hearts and actions.
Thank you Dean.
Time to jog the streets of heaven. 🙏
To Joycelyn, Jess, Michael and Emily and families and the Lobbe family. So sorry to hear of your unexpectant loss.
I haven’t seen much of Dean or you guys for a while, but it was always great to meet up with and spend time and find something fun to do .
It didn’t happen a lot but was always good. He was always genuine, interested, caring yet fun and up for a bit of a laugh.
A life lived well and to the full.
Feel for you guys at this time.
Anglesea Football Netball Club deeply mourn his loss, but we must also celebrate his legacy.
Dean was more than just a volunteer, he was an exceptional individual who embodied the true spirit of community service. He dedicated his time, energy, and heart to our club, and his contributions were immeasurable. As a life member, Dean umpired all games of football on Saturdays and backed it up on Sundays with our women’s football team. He went above and beyond his call of duty as the club’s wellbeing officer, reaching out and supporting more people than we will ever know.
His love for the community was evident in everything he did, and his actions touched the lives of countless people.
Dean’s sudden passing leaves a deep void in our club and our community and his legacy is a testament to the impact that one person can have on the world. His dedication to community service and selflessness should inspire us all to be better people and to live our lives with purpose. He was a shining example of what it means to be a true volunteer, and his contributions will not be forgotten.
So, let us remember Dean Lobbe, a remarkable man who gave so much of himself to our club and community. Let us celebrate his life and his legacy, and let us continue to work together to make our club and our community a better place for all.
Rest in peace, Deano. You will be missed, but your legacy will live on. R.I.P.
Our deepest condolences to all the Lobbe family.
Anglesea Football Netball Club
Dean lived life to the fullest and his legacy will live on for many years to come through the lives he has impacted.
A much loved cousin he reminded me a lot of my dad – kind, generous and a big heart for those struggling with life.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Lobbe family and the many others who are grieving.
May we celebrate the good memories and find comfort in them.
Dear Dear Dean…
I am so grateful to our Lord & Savior, for directing our friendship as teenagers on PFA Camps (Presbyterian Fellowship Australia).
A most beautiful respectful man, always reflecting Jesus; a gentle caring happy soul, full of love & fun.
Thank you for; the precious photo at your 21st Birthday, the wonderful times shared over many years, and the rich blessing of heart held memories.
I look forward to seeing your smile & hearing you laugh, when God takes me home too xo.
Dear Joycelyn & Family…
May God’s perfect love envelop you all.
Numbers 6:24-26.
Sending my condolences to the Lobbe family during this very difficult time.
Words can’t explain how much Dean will be missed in our beautiful community.
For those that have met Dean, they will be better off having done so. Always up for a chat and a laugh, or a helping hand if you needed.
Dean holds a special place in my heart and I’ll miss seeing him around.
Shock, disbelief. Dean was so fit and active – how can this be?!
Over two weeks now, disbelief giving way to reality.
We first knew Dean and Joycelyn during his YFC days. Members of our family have worked with him there and at Karingal, and even accompanied him on New Year’s Eve picking up and delivering revellers safely home. It was a delight to observe his interaction with others – he could give cheek that was not a put-down, he could listen and take seriously questions and concerns, no matter how trivial. He had the ability to give confidence in our ability to achieve. We tried surfing, abseiling, canoeing, cycling, sailing – all under his safety net. He made these things do-able and fun too, like playing ‘Pooh sticks’ at Coogoorah Park. He wanted us to not fear having a go, to enjoy life, each small accomplishment receiving his praise and encouragement. There was a marvellous mix of adventure and security. He taught us faith and trust. There would be a surprise cake for a birthday, nothing fancy, but you were remembered. Or a note of thanks or encouragement, you were valued. We learnt how to treat others. There was a sense of fun with respect and boundaries. Our family especially remember a wonderful day out at the snow with our son and granddaughter from the NT – so much better than if we’d gone alone.
This is all about Dean, but we really feel for you Joycelyn.
Thank you Lobbe family for allowing Dean to be a part in so many lives.
We believe he was used by God to enrich and even rescue the lives of others.
1st I’d like to pass on my condolences to Deans’s family & friends.
Dean came into my life when I was in my 20’s when he helped my son Matty (Popeye) get through some very tough years after his Father left our family. I don’t know what I would of done without Deans’s support and friendship over the years.. Dean was the most caring person I’ve ever met.. he always took the time to help as many ppl as were in need while raising his own family.. Dean you were 1 in a million and there will be no one that can fill your shoes. Thank you for all you did not only for my family but for the community that you were so proud to be a part of.. RIP Mate
We would like to send our sincerest condolences to Joycelyn and family at this time. For the short time Dean was associated with our organisation Your Dream School programs, the same attributes and qualities that people are reflecting on are the very same qualities we had seen in Dean. We are very grateful for his servant heart and the impact he had on the school community as chaplain. We are praying for the family and the wider community that are grieving the loss of someone who truly left his mark on the world.
The world has lost a very special man….a man that holds a big part in my life….when I was younger Dean saved me and for that I will forever thank him…..I will never forget our times we spent together and I will always love and cherish you….you always believed in me even when I didn’t…so many memories I hold close to me and will never forget may you rest in peace love always and forever
– Popeye
I knew Dean through Football years ago. I got to know him through his involvement with his then young son Michael. It seemed that every time we played Anglesea there was Dean umpiring and helping his much loved club. We met many times over the years along the boundary on the grounds he enjoyed so much. Always saying G’day and asking how the “kids” were faring. Dean was very caring, always interested and vital with a fair and balanced view making for qualities to which we can all aspire. My thoughts and good wishes to all Dean’s family and friends.
So many precious and significant memories of this beautiful man of God, for me, and for all who knew him and had the privilege of walking life with him.
One memory really stands out, which is a good example of the quiet way Dean went about living his faith. One Sunday after church when I had led music and preached as well, I was feeling pretty wiped out.
“I’m going home to lie on the couch” I told Dean in an off the cuff comment. “I’d like to watch a movie”.
“Which one””? He asked.
“Frozen” I answered. It was a new release and, in those days, only available from the video shop In Aireys.
I’d no sooner gotten home than Dean was on my doorstep with Frozen and a bag of lollies.
Just the kind of guy he was.
Dean, so many of us have at ours like these. You are irreplaceable but we will do our best to carry on, in our own way, the beautiful legacy you have left us.
Thankyou
See you again one day
Marianne
My sincere condolences to Joycelyn, Jess, Michael, Emily and the Lobbe family.
This is awful news; may your family grieve well. To this end, I pray.
What a man your dad was and is. I will always remember his generosity, care and patience towards me as I fumbled through my 18 year old adolescence back at Camp Wilkin’s internship year in 2008. I’ve since aspired to be as generous, caring and patient to the students I now teach in high school. It’s in these safe spaces that kids can grow to become better humans. I grew under the safe space that your dad carved out for me as an intern at Camp Wilkin.
Thanks Dean for the good times, the hard times, the valuable life lessons and the occasional shenanigans you let me be involved in.
On behalf of Sports Chaplaincy Australia, I wish to express our deepest sympathy and send our love to Dean’s family.
Dean was an outstanding chaplain and excellent ambassador for SCA.
For SCA in country Victoria, he was our “ go to “ person whenever a critical incident occurred in his region.
Personally, his encouraging words either by text or in person were always uplifting and well timed.
We give thanks to God for the ministry of Dean.
Bruce Claridge
SCA Country Victorian Leader.
Condolences to Joycelyn and family,
My memories of Dean or Deano as he also liked to be called go back to Kardinia Cats days in the early 2000’s. He was willing to help out with whatever was required and occasionally pulled the boots on himself. Then doing games at Anglesea as a Goal Ump was enjoyable coming across Deano every time he came down to the point post. The type of guy that would do anything there whether be through the boundary in the Reserves to assisting with injured players, nothing was ever too much for him, unfortunately when I finished up at the GFUL I wasn’t there when he came over officially, but from all reports his commitment was second to none. He’ll be sadly missed by everyone that knew him.
We remember Dean when working at the Geelong Mall Outreach and with Richard Brohier at YFC.
He was always interested in helping young people find themselves and God through outdoor activities and their experiences changed their lives.
He was a servant leader reflecting Christ, meeting people where they were and encouraging them to find Jesus through discipleship.
He was a true blessing to all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Joycelyn and the family.
May God our great comforter be close to you at this time.
Dear Joycelyn, When we think of your immeasurable loss we feel the pain of the daggers piercing our hearts. We all love you because you married this young fellow called Dean who, through your guidance and support, became a remarkable Christian man, full of grace and love, patience and encouragement. He pointed us all to Jesus. And guess what! Right now he’s looking directly into the face of His Saviour. Wow! And we can all see the big smile on Deano’s face. Be assured of our continuing prayers for you and all the family.
Dean to me was an unexpected friend. I worked under and alongside Dean at genU but it didn’t take long for the mutual respect for each to extend outside of work and for work to become a small part of our friendship.
Surprisingly, we had a lot in common. We both had a love for the ocean and the outdoors. I love live music and Dean turned up at work with a Kung Fu in Technocolour cd and mentioned his son drums in the band and maybe I’d see them. Sure enough, I was able to say yes, as well as some history I knew of the band. Dean secured us change room tickets to go see Carlton play, while his nephew was playing ruck.
I learnt that Dean respectfully made his way into your life because he cared for you. He liked you. He respected you. Once my daughter came along, it was not uncommon for Dean to randomly “find” a gift he thought she’d like. Sometimes I’d find them randomly on my doorstep in Torquay.
I transferred work to Warrnambool and when talking it through with Dean, he summed it up by saying – work is work but the only job you need to prioritise is that of being a Dad and Partner. He was right.
To me, Dean was as mythical as he was real….I don’t know anyone who lived every single second of a 24 hour day and then seconds that didn’t exist. While most of us were asleep, Deans off surfing at midnight under a full moon.
I really admired that zest for life.
I hope Dean is resting in peace fully aware of the impact he had on so many people because he really was one of the great guys to come into my life.
Cousin Dean, An absolute legend of a guy who has left us too soon. Only a short while ago we chatted at Aunty Pam’s funeral and said we must catch up. That opportunity is now lost but I can be happy in the knowledge you are in heaven with Mum/Aunty Pam looking down on us. Much like your Aunt, you loved and cared for everyone you came across and impacted so many lives. Rest in peace my mate and cousin. Condolences to all your family. Miss you mate. Remembering all the good times we shared. Wok.
Dean you were larger than life and you built relationships with all the people you met. Your time at Camp Wilkin changed lives, especially in the Interns/trainees and these changes you made in people’s lives will live with them through their ministries and life journey. Your impact with people in the community will live on through them with their lives.
Joycelyn and the family may you find comfort in the fact that Dean’s faith guided his life and you will miss him everyday. Our prays and thoughts are with you at this time.
Dean may you rest in peace with our Heavenly Father and Christ.
My family had many wonderful years of your leadership at Camp Wilkin at the family camps.
Whether it was leading the worship service, teaching the children to surf or talking to them at the bike shed while eating your breakfast. Walking alongside people is what you did best.
My prayers and thoughts are with Joycelyn and family.
Condolences from the wider Baptist Camping of Victoria family.
Jane Braham and the BCV Board.
Dean you weren’t just a friend but you were my brother in Christ. You taught me a lot about how to be a better person with the outdoors with yfc
I’m truly grateful for it all until we meet again, God bless.
– Greg Puls
I was fortunate to have known Dean through the tears, laughter and all that’s involved in the journey of rehab.
Dean’s unconditional support was unwavering, his ability to find the light in others and help cultivate it was a true gift.
Dean was the epitome of selflessness, nurturing and compassion, and I feel blessed to have known a truly great man.
Thank you my friend for your love of life, and for all the heart’s you’ve touched.
You will be deeply missed.
Love Pete
What a fantastic friend, genuine bloke, role model and example of Jesus unconditional love.
Deano was a gentle giant who introduced so many young people to adventure based activities with quality guidance and processes.
I loved Adventure Plus through YFC in partnership with local secondary schools connecting staff and students with the Creators outdoors, challenging activities, personal development and faith. Such a rewarding and fulfilling combination which had him impact and coach many teens and adults. I used to book him in with youth and school groups so that I could hang out with him, let alone lead an awesome activity.
Because of Dean’s eye for adventure activity processes, he was invited to participate in the Salvos White Water Classic fundraiser in the early 90’s (paddling 4 man inflatables 75ks on the Macalister River in Gippsland). Dean did help tidy up the rag tag event but one night he slept outside by the fire, as he was prone to and a cockroach crawled in his ear. Dean kept a cool head and manner most of the time but in absolute desperation, he woke me from my comfy dorm because he was losing his mind. It must be said he was an average patient as I had to dismember the live cockroach with tweezers to get it out of his ear. To say he was relieved was an understatement.
It seems insignificant that one thing I did for him considering all the wonderful things he did for so many others in so many ways on so many levels.
An unreflected experience or adventure is a wasted opportunity to learn and grow Dean would say. That may have saved my life and certainly made me a better facilitator and person.
We are really sad knowing that Dean is not around blessing someone somewhere but I am believing that the same passion, skill and love that he received continues to make an impact on those he loved, taught and encouraged. Lots of love and prayers to Joycelyn and the family.
Jenny and David Scarlett (Brisbane)
You were an amazing human being. Everything you did, all the effort you put in to me, and the rest of the boys at the house was just a glimmer of the man you were. Whether it was watching a movie until past bedtime with you, scoffing popcorn and liquorice bullets, or hitting golf balls in the paddock, I always looked forward to Friday nights, because I got to spend time with you.
Your selflessness and love for us was shown, as I walked into my room, or woke up to a personally written note of encouragement and love written by you on several occasions. No matter how busy you were, and I know you were busy, you always made sure to make time for us.
You were a rare human being, and I’m going to miss you.
Love Mitch.
Dean was a deeply loved and respected member of the Anglesea Baptist community for over sixteen years where he played a pivotal role in walking alongside others both formally and informally.
Dean was a hugely valued member of our wider community serving in many capacities with grace, love and unconditional acceptance. So much of Dean was unseen; words of encouragement, gifts or acts of service that simply showed love. Dean followed Jesus and has set us an example to follow.
We grieve with Joycelyn, their children, extended family, friends and colleagues and share your pain. Our grief is not without hope, the Jesus Dean followed said “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die”.
Thank you Dean, good and faithful servant.
I worked with Dean at Foundation 61 for a few years. I had such a deep respect for Dean’s deep love of people, and his commitment to serve others. While I worked at foundo, I also worked with another organisation working with those who struggle with major mental health issues. One day I sat with a man who hardly ever spoke because of his intellectual disability and mental health struggles. As we sat there, he suddenly said the name Dean Lobbe. out of silence, he spoke Dean’s name. This guy did not even know I knew Dean. It was so random. When I saw Dean next I asked him if he knew this guy and he said yes, he worked with him 20 years ago and took him sailing and to church. How is it, that a guy who could hardly speak say the name Dean Lobbe. Wow!
I then realised the amazing impact Dean had on many people’s lives over a long time.
Well done Dean, u loved so well. Thanks for being my friend.
Dean was one of the most amazing humans I ever knew, he walked beside me though my rehabilitation journey while in rehab and after rehab also always texting or calling me to check up on me when he didn’t have to, he wanted to. The one thing that made my day every time we saw each other was how happy and appreciative and grateful he was about a small key ring I had purchased him saying thank you for everything he had done for me.
This world has truly lost an incredible, selfless, loving man.
Your messages and smile will be truly missed
Dean was a valued member of the Foundation 61 team.
He spent so much of his time encouraging all those around him.
He was relatable and had a kind word for everyone. Such a godly blessing.
My deepest sympathies to Jocelyn and all his family.
I meet Dean while in rehab at Foundation 61. He was appointed my mentor while in the house. He stood beside me through my rehabilitation and also when I left the house.
I’m very grateful for the time I got to spend with Dean and he will be very missed.
Dean will be remembered for many great things but what stands out was how he celebrated people, he was an encourager of men.
Dean would always go that extra mile to make special occasions even more special.
He will be missed deeply by the wider community he served but not as much as his precious family, Joycelyn, his children and adored grandchildren whom he talked of often.
Our sincere condolences to Dean’s family, may the peace of the Lord be your comfort in the days ahead.
Dean was a past staff member of Foundation 61 and until his passing a current valued volunteer.
Dean will be remembered for his unswerving faith, his love of nature and all things outdoors, his sense of adventure and most of all dedication and love towards his family.
Dean was a great mentor and encourager to the Foundation 61 fellas and gave many the opportunity to experience new things by sharing his love for adventure.
Dean celebrated people and always had a unique way of making special days extra special.
Our sincere condolences to Joycelyn, Deans children and partners and his adored grandchildren.
Well done good and faithful servant.
To a man who was my brother in Christ, who married my close friend Joycelyn.
Dean, you shared your heart and love with everyone. Everyone was important for you to encourage, no-one too insignificant. You had a wonderful listening ear and you brought out the best in everyone. You always brought hope to the struggling. You were fun to be around. Your volunteer roles were so many and so special. My fondest memory will always be your incredible smile and your patience. Brother I will miss you but we will be reunited one day.
To Joycelyn, I have many precious memories of you as a home schooled young adult, childcare training, sharing my home, your wedding, your support of Dean through many adventures and roles. These included Wycliffe, YFC, Camp Wilkin, Katdinia, ambulance service, CFA, outdoor adventure and sport and many more. You had a quiet but stunning impact on the world around you. I will see you soon, but my prayers for you and your family will be ongoing for peace, hope and joy in your grief. ♥️🙏
I am filled with grief, disbelief, and a profound sense of emptiness. The world seems different now, and I struggle to come to terms with the fact that he is no longer with us. The unexpected passing of my friend Dean has left me beyond words. He was not just a friend, but at times a brother, at times a father, and a mentor to me. Over the past 30 years he took me from a broken angry teenager and helped me shape the type of man I wanted to become. From sitting with me in the middle of the bay after my daughter died to putting his hand on my shoulder after my father died. We would catch up every few months and share what has been happening in our lives. His wisdom and kindness were unparalleled. He instilled in me a passion for the wilderness and for what it means to be a strong man who LOVES & SERVES.
Dean, as I reflect on the impact you had on my life I realise you were more than just a mentor to me; you were a guiding light, showing me the way to a life filled with adventure, the outdoors, family, friendships and a love for God.
You instilled in me a passion for exploration and taught me to appreciate the wild ruggedness of nature. From hiking in the mountains to camping under the stars, you showed me the peace I could find for my damaged spirit in the wilderness. It has since become a lifelong love for the great outdoors.
But your teachings went beyond just adventure. You exemplified what it means to be a strong man with compassion, who loves his family and serves his community. You showed me the importance of being kind, empathetic, and selfless, and how those qualities can make a positive impact on those around us.
You were a true leader, and your guidance and mentorship shaped the type of man that I continue to aspire to be. Your unwavering support and belief in me gave me the confidence to strive to leave the world a better place than I found it.
Although it now feels a little bitter, I will continue to strive to be a man of strength, compassion, and service to my community.
Thank you for being the big brother and father figure I needed, and for showing me the true meaning of being a man, husband and father. I will strive to be the type of man and leader you would be proud of.
Thank you for being my friend… JB
Matthew 6:9-13
Our heartfelt condolences to Joycelyn and family on the loss of a much loved husband, father, father in law and grandfather. Dean was a gracious man and we have been reflecting on how he could strike up a conversation with anyone and would seek out those who might be feeling nervous to help them feel at ease. To be able to form relationships and help people toward a better path in this life and the next is a characteristic just like Jesus and we will remember Dean as being so much like Him. Our love to all who grieve; may God be a source of comfort and strength to you in the days ahead. Rev. 21:4