Dean was born the youngest of three brothers to Ethel and DuWayne Cross on May 15, 1956, in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. He grew up in Portland, Tennessee.

As a young man, he developed a love for the outdoors and found he had a knack for all things mechanical, especially cars. After leaving Tennessee, fate brought him to Austin, which was once a sleepy little college town. It was here Dean would meet the love of his life, Michele Ann Theroux. They married on July 21, 1978, and shortly after moved to Elgin, where they were blessed with their daughter, Maureen and later welcoming their son, Dean “Alan” Cross.

Dean did many things throughout his life — everything from helping care for and comfort quadriplegics to painting and remodeling homes with his older brother, Carson. However, it was in the automotive field where he found his true passion and spent the majority of his working career. He began working for an Austin area body shop detailing cars. Later, he was hired on at Charles Maund, where he worked for over 40 years.

Throughout his life, Dean made an impression on everyone he met. He developed many lifelong friends and could always be counted on to lend a hand. He enjoyed riding on anything with wheels, fishing, gardening, playing golf and occasionally causing a little good-natured mayhem. Although issues with his knees would later keep him from some of his favorite hobbies, he always maintained a sense of humor and easy-going nature.

Dean is survived by his loving wife, Michele Ann Cross; his daughter, Maureen; his son, Dean “Alan;” his wife, Britney; their children, Carter Dean, Chandler Ann and Charlotte Brianne; his niece, Shandi Theroux, and her children, Kenneth, Kaydence and Serena; as well as his brothers,Dale and Carson Cross, and his wife, Jane; and many nieces and nephews. Dean was a much-loved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Family and friends gathered for visitation at Elgin Funeral Home Tuesday, Feb. 28, from 6 until 7 p.m., followed by a celebration of life at 7 p.m. with Deacon Larry Dunne presiding.Entombment will be Wednesday, March 1, at 11 a.m. at the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church Mausoleum of New Braunfels.