Rod L. Dean

Rodney L. "Rod" Dean, 70, of Uhrichsville, died Wednesday, April 11, 2012.

He was born December 24, 1941 in Canton, the son of the late Louis and Mildred Manse Dean.

Rod was retired from the Tuscarawas County Board of DD where he had worked for more than 10 years as a bus driver. He had also formerly been employed by Akromold of Canton. He attended Canton McKinley High School.

Known for his loveable, caring personality, Rod will be missed by many. He was quick to make friends, was a great listener and loved to laugh. He had a great sense of humor and was quite the practical joker. He enjoyed spending the holidays with family and for many years, played Santa at Christmas.

Rod was gifted with skilled hands that he used in his favorite pastime, woodcarving. Over the years, he produced scores of one-of-a-kind carvings for family and friends, everything from animals and birds to ornaments and other decorations. He was a member of the Wilderness Woodcarvers Club.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Knight Dean, whom he married on February 14, 1991.

Other surviving family members include: four children, Cheryl Brodzenski and her companion, Gary, of Dillonvale, Katrina Dean and her companion, Butch, of Deltona FL, Shawn Kinser of Akron and Kris Kinser of New Philadelphia; three grandchildren, Melissa Rainsberg and her husband, Jeremiah of New Philadelphia, Jeremiah Dean who resides at Eglin Air Force Base, and Jordan Dean of Sugarcreek; a sister, Sandi Rohl of Canton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, Rod was preceded in death by a brother, Tim Dean, Sr.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory.

A service celebrating Rod's life will be held Sunday, April 15 at 3:00 p.m. in Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory, Dover. Friends may call one-hour prior to services.