Dean Michael Claus, 67, passed away January 29th, 2026, at Banner Medical Hospital in Tucson, Arizona surrounded by his family. Dean is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Claus, and his daughters, Kayla Claus (husband Eric Henry) and Nichole Lemons.
Dean was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, and later moved with his family to Valley City, North Dakota, where he graduated from Valley City High School in 1976. Shortly after high school, he joined the United States Air Force, fulfilling his lifelong dream of working with airplanes. Over the course of his military career, Dean rose through the ranks and became a Crew Chief for B-1 Bombers. His service took him around the world and eventually led him to Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas, where he met his wife, Cheryl, who was also stationed there. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Kayla.After retiring from the military in 1994, Dean and his family moved to Round Rock, Texas, where he earned his A&P mechanic’s license. His passion for aviation continued as he worked in Waukesha, Wisconsin, and later lived in Platte City, Missouri for several years. Dean also resided in Omaha, Nebraska; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Scottsdale, Arizona; and finally Vail, Arizona, where he spent his final days with Cheryl.Dean had many talents and hobbies. He loved attending air shows, driving his Chevy Camaro, and sharing his knowledge and skills with future generations. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people, forming lasting friendships wherever life took him. Dean believed deeply in giving back and was known for buying lunch for veterans and older individuals, a simple act that reflected his generous heart. Above all else, nothing mattered more to Dean than providing for his family, supporting those he loved, and being there for his friends.Dean will always be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father, and the kind of friend everyone hopes to have. In addition to his wife and daughters, he is survived by his sisters, Linda (husband Jim Weber), Barbara (husband Tom Lundgren), and Theresa; several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces; and countless friends and neighbors who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Verlyn Claus.
Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at Davis Funeral Chapel at 11 A.M. Burial will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery at 12:30 P.M.
