Dean Adams

Dean L Adams blessed the J Richins and Marleene Hardy Adams family on Oct 21, 1970. He has 7 siblings and 2 devoted parents. Dean's life touched everyone who came in contact with him, and they were better for it. From the time he was a very small child it became evident that he was special, not only in the way the world saw him but in his kind, generous spirit that carried him through any difficulty. Dean had many trials in his life, but he turned those trials into triumphs.

Dean was 52 years old when he passed away on May 9, 2023, in American Fork, Utah. Many hearts cracked on earth while there was great rejoicing in Heaven. We were gifted more years than we initially imagined with him loving and scolding, teasing and in general teaching us to be better people. Every family has a favorite and in ours it was Dean.

Dean had a special bond with his parents. They were his cheerleaders. They allowed him to soar and achieve as much as possible. He attended Dan Peterson School in American Fork and graduated in 1989.

After graduation Dean worked at the Albertsons/Fresh Market for 30 years and was well-known and loved by his community. Dean knew how to work and was a cheerful, diligent worker. He loved serving and helping people. Dean was a man of faith. He loved the gospel and going to Church was one of his favorite things to do. He set the bar high for his friends and family always leading by example. Dean was proud to be ordained a deacon in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and passed the Sacrament every chance he got. He was later ordained an Elder and joyfully participated in many family ordinances. Along with his dad they took assignments in their ward and stake. One time they were assigned building care. Their Bishop thought they would just supervise, make assignments and ensure it got done, but Dad and Dean did the entire building even though it took several days each week to complete the task. Dean took great pride in his work whether it was cleaning the Church, picking up the construction job site at the Mount Timpanogos temple at night, mowing lawns or getting the garbage out (including the neighbors).

Dean was particularly honored when he was chosen Grand Marshall for the American Fork Steel Days in 2008.

Dean had a quirky sense of humor that he shared with everyone. He would tell a joke and then laugh at his own joke. If we said something he found amusing, he would say "That's a good one!". Dean was a "good one." His absence leaves a hole with a hope. We know we will see him again.

Dean loved sports. As a young man Dean participated in Special Olympics. He has a scrapbook overflowing with his certificates, ribbons and medals. Dean helped his nephew Trevor coach basketball and baseball. Dean loved our country. He proudly displayed the American Flag every day. He never missed putting flowers on his parents and Brad's grave many times through the year and made sure it included a flag.

Dean is survived by his siblings; Cindy Johnson, J'Lene (Dell) Willes, Clay (Shaurna) Adams, Jim (Nancy) Adams, Teena (Darcy) Allan, Glen (Rachelle) Adams, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Dean is preceded in death by his parents, JR and Marleene, brother, Brad Adams, brother-in-law, Lynn Johnson and his grandparents.

The family wishes to thank all those who cared for Dean; doctors, nurses, hospice personnel, neighbors and ward members. We especially want to recognize the loving service given by Teena and Darcy. Their continual care, sacrifice and dedication since Mom passed away allowed Dean the priceless gift of independence, living in his own home and taking charge of much of his life.

The service for Dean L Adams will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at 11:00 AM in the American Fork 38th Ward chapel, 270 North 900 East. A viewing will be held Monday, May 15 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Anderson & Sons American Fork, 49 East 100 North. There will also be a viewing on Tuesday at the 38th Ward chapel prior to the service at 9:45 AM. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple fund. Please share a memory on Dean's Tribute Wall at www.AndersonMortuary.com.

Please click on the link below to watch Dean's funeral service via live stream:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87596449899?pwd=MjhWSDYwV3pPbHdrNGU4Vk4wbzlNQT09