Dean Allan Opperude , 49, Minot, died Monday, June 4, 2012 in a Minneapolis VA hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Dean was born January 25, 1963, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Minot, ND to Allan and Norma (Hillestad) Opperude. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church. During his school years, Dean played basketball, football and baseball. He graduated early with the Minot High School class of 1980.

Dean was once married to Janine K. Lawson in Minot. This union was blessed with two sons, Robbie Allan and Ramee Lee.

Dean joined the US Army on March 28, 1985. During his service he was awarded the Army Commendation, Army Achievement, Good Conduct and National Defense Service Medals. He was honorably discharged on July 5, 1991.

Dean returned to Minot following his service. He began his career as a self-employed property manager of several properties in Minot for the next 21 years. Being self-employed allowed him to focus on his biggest accomplishment; his two sons. Dean never missed an event in his children's lives, and this dedication transferred to his grandchildren, niece, and nephews. He defined the term "professional grandfather". He would patiently play for hours, and spent endless time at the soccer fields, hockey rinks, and dance recitals. Dean's love for children is an inspiration to us all, and a reminder to slow down and enjoy each moment.

Dean was a life member of Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot. He also carried memberships to the American Legion, DAV of ND and the Arbor Day Foundation. As a young man, he shared a love of automobiles with his father, and was known to invest in something hoping to make a good deal. He was a sports enthusiast, collector of unique memorabilia and maybe the biggest 'Packer' fan in ND. Dean will be missed for all of his qualities as a loving son, devoted father, the best grandfather, supportive brother, wise uncle and generous friend.

His loving family includes his sons, Robbie (Carisa) Opperude, Minot and Ramee (Katherine) Opperude, Manhattan, KS; grandchildren, Angelina, London, Beckham and Olivia Opperude; parents, Allan and Norma Opperude, Minot; sister, Dana (David) Johnson, Moorhead, MN; brother, Darin (Kelly) Opperude, Minot, ND; niece, Kylee Johnson; nephews, Reed Johnson, Shane McCarty and Riley Opperude and numerous cousins.

Dean was preceded in death by his grandparents, Norman and Dallas Hillestad and Alvin and Arna Opperude.

Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 11, 2012 at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot.
Visitation: Sunday, June 10, 2012 from noon until 4:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Memorials are preferred to the Minot Recreation Commission in memory of Dean.