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Robert Andrew Dean, 47

Robert “Rob” Andrew Dean was born May 13, 1971, in Newark, N.J. His parents, Woodrow and Ann (Bardi) brought him home to his brothers, Guy and James, and his sister, Grace. A few years later, sister Nichole completed their family. Rob grew up in New Jersey and discovered his passion for football, playing for his school and being a lifelong NY Giants fan.

Rob met Kristen Suhr in 1991, in New Jersey, where she worked as a nanny, and when she moved back to Idaho, he came with her. They were married July 25, 1992, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho and started their joint adventure. Their son, Jordan, was born Dec. 13, 1998, and their daughter, Makenzie joined the family May 25, 2001.

Rob lived his life with a passion that few people exhibit, and a tenacity and commitment to family that is an inspiration. He shared his passion for sports with his children and the time and energy he invested in their pursuits was not a burden for him, but one of his greatest joys. His son, Jordan, grew up playing, watching and living football. Some of Rob’s best days were getting to coach Jordan from third through eighth grade and watching him play for Coeur d’Alene High School. Rob not only gave his time to his own kids, but spent over 20 years coaching youth football. His interest was not only strategy and wins, but he CARED about his teams — so much so, that his players and their parents became family.

His daughter, Kenzie, introduced him to the joys of competitive volleyball, and he embraced this sport with the same intensity he did football. The many pictures of his proud, beaming smile at her games and tournaments show the joy he experienced while sharing Kenzie’s passion.

One of Rob’s great gifts was his ability to embrace so many people in his circle. Once you knew Rob, you became “his.” His family, his friends, his team. In 2006, he and his wife, Kristen bought the local business, Sign Service and Manufacturing, and his circle widened further to inlcude his customers, his employees and his community. There didn’t seem to be an end to the reach of his care, and his death on May 19, 2018, has left so many feeling the loss.

Rob was a loving son and son-in-law, a devoted husband, a dedicated father, a brother, nephew, uncle, brother-in-law, friend, coach, cousin, employer, community member; his influence and love will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Yates Funeral Home — Coeur d’Alene Chapel, 744 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements.

Please visit Rob’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.