This is my Grandpa's obituary which will be appearing in the Seattle Times on Wednesday and various other local papers later this week. He was well known, especially in North Snohomish County.

Dean R. Likkel

Dean Ray Likkel passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones April 20, 2007, at the age of 70 after a brief battle with cancer. He was born May 1, 1936 in Grangeville, Idaho to Albert "John" Likkel and Helen Haveman Likkel. He and his twin sister were the youngest of six children, growing up in Lynden, Washington. In 1954, he married Carol Barber and had three daughters.

He began his career as a mechanic for the Ford Motor Company, then worked as a heavy equipment operator doing road construction. Eventually, his talent for working with people led him into investments and insurance sales. In 1974, he married Marlene Johnston Hollenbeck and, with her, he owned and managed a court-reporting firm doing legal video work and record retrieval.

Dean was committed to his church and community. He was a member of Smokey Point Community Church since 1973, and was a charter member of the Smokey Point Chamber Of Commerce, serving on the Board of Directors for over 18 years. He was on the Snohomish County Economic Development Board, member of the Board of Directors of Forward North County, and an organizing charter member of Marysville Toastmasters, using his public speaking skills as a motivational speaker.

He served both the youth and seniors of his community, as well, by volunteering on the Advisory Council for the Marysville Alternative High School and on the Board of Directors of the Stillaguamish Senior Center. He has been a certified instructor for the AARP Defensive Safe Driving program for six years. Dean believed strongly in being involved in the political process. His involvement included, among other projects, supporting the Pro-Life movement, and serving on Jack Metcalf's campaign for State Senate and U.S. Congress for several years. He had a love for auctioneering and used his skills and abounding charisma to conduct hundreds of auctions for churches and charitable organizations.

Dean had an unwavering faith in his Lord, Jesus Christ, and leaves behind a lasting legacy in the many lives he touched and in his loving family, including his wife, Marlene; his three daughters, Debra Miller, Deanne Guthrie, and Daralyn Hollenbeck; his two step-sons, Gregory Hollenbeck and Jeffery Hollenbeck; his thirteen grandchildren and his five great-grandchildren.

He passed on to join his parents, John and Helen Likkel, and his twin sister, Fay Griffith.

As an opportunity to celebrate his life, a memorial service will be held at Smokey Point Community Church at 2:30 pm Sunday, April 29, 2007. 17721 Smokey Point Blvd. Arlington, WA. (360) 659-2844.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests any memorial donations be made to Providence Hospice of Snohomish County or a favorite charity.