It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lowell Dean Justus, of Trimble, MO. Dean was a devoted husband and a cherished father who passed away on August 30, 2025, at the age of 90.
The son of Ross & Hazel Justus, Dean was born on July 23, 1935, on the family farm near Smithville. Dean lived a life marked by love, strength, contentment, and an appreciation for the outdoors. He found joy in the simple things—fishing, camping, gardening, reading, hunting, and going to garage sales with his wife.
Dean was married to Virginia Carol Scherf in 1955. To that union, sons Billy, Roger, John, and Brian were born. Virginia Carol preceded him in death. Later, Dean found companionship and love again with his devoted wife, Gloria Goodner, whom he married in 1981. Gloria stood by his side with unwavering support and care. Together, they built a life full of laughter, adventure, and deep mutual respect.
Dean worked and managed various locations for the United Co-op for 27 years. Afterwards, he spent 12 years working for MODOT. Dean was a hard worker and excelled in these roles.
He is survived by his loving wife, Gloria Justus; his children: Billy Justus and wife Lisa, Roger Justus and wife Patt, and Brian Justus and wife Casey. Stepdaughter Rita Buckland and husband Mark, and his brother, Kenneth Justus. Dean was the proud grandpa to fifteen grandchildren: Jeremy, Troy, Anthony, Scott, Tyler, Carol, Krystle, Cooper, Quincy, Simon, Nicole, Shelby, Tara, Ben, and Karen. He was also blessed with twenty great-grandchildren: Nicholi, Ty, Emily, Riley, Conner, Donaivin, Athena, Jamie, Baron III, Rozlynn, Gabriel, Luke, Cameron, Kierstin Bailey, Kaden, Kyler, Hank, Audrey, Nora, and Bobbi Sue Monks
Dean was preceded in death by: his son, John Charles Justus; step-son, Mike Goodner; great-grandson, Hunter Justus; and siblings: Martha Mae Cone, Roy Justus, Norman Justus, Vernon Justus, and Bonnie Miller. Each of them held a special place in his heart.
Dean will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 a.m. with A Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 6th, at Hixon-Klein Funeral Home in Smithville, MO. Burial: Community of Smithville Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Paradise Baptist Church.
