Wingdale – Craig Allen Dean, 56, a lifelong resident of Wingdale, NY, most recently of Dover Plains, died unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, March 3, 2015. “Craigger” as he was more affectionately known to everyone had worked as a therapy aide at Harlem Valley Psychiatric Center in Wingdale, NY for over 10 years and for Judson Hay Farm in Wingdale for many years. Born July 2, 1958 in Poughkeepsie, NY, he was the son of the late Erwin & Melva “Dolly” (White) Dean. He attended Dover Jr. & Sr. High School and served his country in the United States Marine Corps. , receiving an Honorable Discharge on February 6, 1976. “Craigger” was an avid guitar player and enjoyed hunting, cooking, college basketball especially “March Madness” and spending time with all his friends. During his younger years “Craigger” was an amazing baseball pitcher with a fast ball that clocked in at over 90 miles per hour. He was scouted by major league baseball until an injury sidelined his career. He remained an avid baseball fan throughout his life.
“Craigger” is survived by two nieces; Carolyn Bosley of Wassaic, NY and Cathy Peterson of Milford, CT, two cousins; Kyle and Jeff Carr, his dear friends; Charlie and Martha Pulver and George Judson all of Wingdale, NY and several friends that he loved and always considered family.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his only brother, Erwin “Punky” Dean, Jr. in 1971.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, March 9, 2015 from 11-12:30pm at, 37 Park Avenue, Millerton, NY 12546. Funeral services will take place at 12:30pm at the funeral home. Pastor William Mayhew will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow at South Dover Rural Cemetery, Route 55 & Church Hill, Wingdale, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to the J.H. Ketcham Hose Company, P.O. Box 706, Dover Plains, NY 12522.
