DEAN FLOOD

Longtime La Conner resident Merle Dean Flood, “Dean” to everyone who knew him, died on Thursday, February 6 at the age of 66.

Dean was born in Barron, Wisconsin on December 12, 1947 to Merle C. Flood and Allene S. Flood.

He attended Stout State University of Wisconsin, where he graduated with a degree in Fine Arts. After college, Dean traveled around the United States, visiting various cities.

During his travels, he arrived in beautiful La Conner and decided to call the town home. Dean fell in love with the beauty of the Skagit Valley, he enjoyed the farms, forest, and art communities associated with the area.

Dean is survived by his brother Perry Freseth and his two sisters, Laurie Bolton and Vickie Peterson and their families.

He also leaves behind his very good friend, local writer Jim Smith — whom he would have considered family — and many other close acquaintances he has made throughout his years in La Conner.

It was Dean’s wish to not have a memorial service but rather to take joy in the life he had.

Dean wanted to express his gratitude to all who supported him throughout the years, including the medical community, the doctors, the wonderful care providers and volunteers who helped him over the years.

The family would like to thank Habitat for Humanity and all the other community organizations that also helped Dean stay independent and comfortable.

If you want to make memorial donations in memory of Dean, please consider Habitat for Humanity or any spinal cord injury charity organization of your choice.

The family also expresses its gratitude to Evans Funeral Chapel & Crematory for their support in Dean’s final arrangements.