Ronald "Dean" Blayden

Blayden, Ronald “Dean” age 83 Loving husband, father, grandfather, entered into rest on April 14, 2012 with his family at his side. Dean was born July 10, 1928 in Craigmont, ID to Roy and Esther Blayden. He lived in Moscow, ID with his family until they moved to Spokane in 1942. After graduating from North Central high school in 1946, Dean worked odd jobs and spent 13 months in the Army, stationed at Texarkana, Texas. Before leaving for the army, he met the love of his life, Jacqueline Diane Salvage. They were married on March 14, 1954, and remained devoted to each other until his death. Dean’s career was with the Washington State Department of Transportation. He retired in 1982 at the age of 53 after 30 years of service. One of Dean’s big goals was to be retired as many years as he worked, and he achieved that goal this year. Dean’s biggest passion in life was always his family. His children and grandchildren were the light of his life. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, huckleberry picking, building camp fires and attending his grandkid’s sporting events. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Dean leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Jacqueline; children, Bruce Blayden of Everett, WA and Mary (Jeff) Larsen of Spokane; grandchildren, Bradley Blayden, Andrew Larsen, Nicholas (Amanda) Larsen, Tory Larsen, Jason (Jocelyn) Larsen; five great grandchildren; brother, James Blayden of Sierra Vista, AZ; sisters, Virginia Jacobson and Beverly Kelly of Spokane; numerous nieces and nephews. Dean was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Leroy Glenn Blayden. The family would like to thank the Neuro ICU unit at Sacred Heart hospital for their care and kindness during Dean’s last few days. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the charity of choice.