Charles Edward Dean, Sr. was born in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma on December 29, 1940 to George and Oleta Dean. He died on November 20, 2022 at home in Norman, Oklahoma. He is survived by his children: Rhonda Carol (Kyncl) and her husband, David, of Norman; Charles Edward, Jr. and his wife, Cassy, of Osceola, Missouri; his grandchildren Trevor Clay Dean, Mary Eleanor Kyncl, Maddison Paige Dean, and Jonathan David Kyncl; and his younger brother, Harvey and his wife Sharon of Pittsburg, Kansas.

Charles served as a pastor for over 50 years. His pastoral calling was unmistakable. He was fond of saying that, "Some were called; some were chosen; and some just got up and went." Charles was called. His pastoral philosophy and lifestyle were simple: show up and choose love. He served churches, first, in the Assemblies of God denomination in Byng, Oklahoma; Independence, Kansas; Colby, Kansas; Durant, Oklahoma and Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. Even after his official retirement as a full-time pastor in 2007 and subsequent move to Norman, he continued to shepherd: first, for the Norman Community Church of the Nazarene, and finally, for CrossPointe Church. In these final appointments, Charles was first an encouragement to those in leadership. He also responded quickly to any and every need he was made aware of. He visited many in the hospital and in nursing homes, accompanied many as they navigated life's trials, and he faithfully stewarded those experiencing loss.

His prayers were born from his own experience of loss; Charles deeply felt the death of his wife of 58 years, Carolyn, in August of last year. He felt her absence profoundly and true to his Godly commitment, he responded by generously serving others. He served in CrossPointe's Food Pantry weekly as well as at the Men's Prayer Breakfast. In turn, he was sustained by his church family, enjoying their fellowship, their hospitality, the food they consistently provided, and a couple of fishing trips to Branson.

Charles was a most attentive father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. His brother and sister-in-law, Harvey and Sharon Dean, his sister-in-law, Evelyn Stevens, and his children and grandchildren were especially significant to him in the last year. He loved us extravagantly. He never ended a conversation or an event without reminding us of that love. He enjoyed burgers every Saturday at the 405 Burger Bar with us and lunch every Sunday. And even in the most challenging last four weeks of his life, at the end of each and every interaction, he never failed to say again that, "[He] sure did love us."

In his hobbies and recreational pursuits, Charles also demonstrated his care and concern for others. He was fond of visiting "the greens," the golf greens that is, and there too, he was a source of encouragement, offering joyful conversation, prayers, and marrying services. He was also fond of donut shops and had significant "coffee house ministries" wherever he lived and worked. He had a contagious sense of humor and never took himself too seriously. He was quick to laugh, unceasingly patient, and always chose to believe that good would prevail.

If you were known by Charles Dean, you were loved by Charles Dean. And that love was attentive, gentle, and unconditional…a radiant example for us all.