Gary W. Dean passed away on March 23, 2023, at the age of 63 in Winter Park, Orange County, FL. He graduated from Satellite Beach High School where he fell in love with the theatre and production. He went to work with Musicana Dinner Theater which allowed him to travel the east coast. Gary’s next great adventure was working his way up from Sound Tech to Stage Manager for the SS Emerald Seas. His career as a Stage Manager took him West to Nebraska for the Omaha Community Playhouse. Moving to the West Coast, he worked at Knott’s Berry Farm and then Universal Studios Hollywood. Back East to Florida in 1996, Gary joined Renaissance Entertainment where he poured all of his passion and drive for 26 years. He produced and installed shows all over the world. He produced movies, won awards, mentored many, and was always ready a funny quip or Seinfeld quote. By far, Gary’s crown jewel was his final production, “A Christmas Karen.”
Gary was a lover of movies, TV shows, music, and the Miami Dolphins. He shared his great taste in entertainment generously with those around him. He was never without his quick wit and great sense of humor. He was a master of first impressions and could win over even the hardest of hearts with his charm. Gary was slow to anger and quick to forgive, qualities those who love him will value and admire forever.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence T. Dean, and Carolyn Honaker Dean; and his sister, Debra Dean. He is survived by his brother, John Dean of Tallahassee FL and the great loves of his life, his daughters: Caroline Dean of Atlanta GA, Christina Gunderman (Anthony) of Atlanta GA, and Catherine Dean of Raymond, MS.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held Saturday, April 22, 2023, starting 12:00 p.m. at 8795 Rens Trail Kissimmee, FL with the sharing of stories and memories.