Obituary of Dean Zahren

Dean Zahren

5 October 1939 - 13 April 2021

We have every confidence that Dad will embrace the next stage of his being with the same passion and love he brought to this one. His interests and skills were varied and impressive: fine woodworking, astral photography, music, gardening, fishing, caring for his koi and their pond, boating, cooking (but not the clean-up!), wine making, and anything that looked fun. He dove into his interests and gained great skill at all of them. Most notable, though, was the great love he shared with us. He was unfailingly supportive of his friends and family, believing in us and giving us the skills and resources to achieve our dreams. He took joy in our accomplishments and when we failed, he held us up and encouraged us. Our home was a refuge to many, many people over the decades, thanks to Dad’s and Mom’s open-door hospitality. Their home has always been a hub of activity, the place that radiates warmth and welcome. Dad’s sense of humor has endowed us with a lifetime of funny memories and we will carry on his legacy. We wish him great joy on his new adventure.

Dad was born on 5 October 1939 in Seattle WA. His parents were Nita and Walt Zahren. He graduated from Highline High School, attended Central Washington University and then Seattle University where he met his great love and wife of 59 years, Dianne. They were quite a team.

Dean’s survivors include: his wife Dianne, daughter Kim (Eric) Claussen, son Scott (Jomarie) Zahren, grandchildren Breanne (Jeff) Kistler, Shanti Claussen, Claire (Brian) Hicks, Nicholas Zahren, Dominic (Lauren) Dorsett, Allyson (Damon) Hargis, and Madison Dorsett, and great grandchildren Jordan, Paige, Kaylin, Ellie, Cora and Sam. He is also survived by his sister Kathy Roberts.

Godspeed, Dad. We love you.

In lieu of flowers, please send remembrances to Evergreen Hospice 12040 NE 128th St Kirkland WA 98034-3098