Dean Roy Maack

Dean Roy Maack passed away Thursday, February 22, 2024 at his home in Cozad at the age of 76. Dean was born in Cozad on September 1, 1947 to Roy and Alice (Gustafson) Maack. He lived a life full of dedication and love for his family and friends. He graduated from Cozad High School in 1965 and went on to have a fulfilling career that included working on the family farm in his youth, spending over 25 years at Monroe Auto, and later trucking for Gene Easterday and Nebraska Salt and Grain.

Proud of his country, Dean chose to enlist in the Navy serving in the Vietnam War and served with honor. He always spoke fondly of his time as an extra in the Universal Studio movie "Tora, Tora, Tora" while stationed in Hawaii. The many Military Decorations, medals, badges, commendations, citations and campaign ribbons awarded or authorized to Dean were: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (with one campaign star), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal (with device). Dean's commitment to his military service was unwavering, and it was a significant part of his life that he held dear.

In his leisure time, Dean enjoyed various hobbies such as hunting, fishing, and camping. However, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His kind heart and warm presence will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Dean is survived by his son Michael (Tyrene) Maack of Cozad, daughter Kerri Dangler of Lexington, grandchildren Joey and Dallas Maack of Cozad and Kelsey (Trevor) Hallan of Lexington, great-grandchildren Logan, Paisley and Luke Maack of Cozad, Zachary Simite and River Hallan of Lexington, brothers Gene Maack of Cozad and Ron Garrelts of California, sister Sharlyn (Jerry) Hurst of Colorado, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his beloved pet donkey Busch but leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories shared with those he loved.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Cremation was chosen and a Memorial Service to honor Dean's life will be held at Berryman Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00 p.m. on March 1, 2024 with Harvey Pierce officiating.