Dean Everton Henry

Dean Everton Henry, age 93, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026, in the very home where he spent the past 90 years, surrounded by his family.

Dean was born on April 16, 1932, in Utica to Earl and Ruth (McCready) Henry. He graduated from Lewiston High School in 1950. In 1954, he went on a blind date with Margaret “Becky” Becklund, and on January 28, 1955, they were united in marriage. Together they shared 71 years devoted to their faith, their family, and the life they built side by side.

Dean farmed on the original family dairy until 1977. After deciding he’d had enough of early-morning milkings, he sold the herd and began a new chapter driving semi-truck—an adventure that required even earlier mornings, but one he embraced wholeheartedly. He found true joy in trucking and continued driving his Volvo until he was 89½ years old.

Dean had a deep love for Boxcar Willie, Louis L’ Amour, and Oliver tractors. During one of his final visits, his family played a Boxcar Willie record and reminisced together. Becky often read Louis L’ Amour books aloud during their drives to church and on their many trips over the years. Dean owned several Oliver tractors throughout his life, but his favorite was the brand-new Oliver 88 he purchased in 1952. As the years passed, the tractor grew worn, and Dean’s grandson—who shared his passion for Olivers—took on the project of restoring it. Dean believed it was simply being repaired; he had no idea it was being fully restored to its original glory. The smile on his face each time he climbed onto that tractor is a memory his family will cherish forever.

Dean is survived by his wife, Margaret “Becky” Henry of Utica; his children, Renee Benton of Converse, TX, Twyla Peterson of Lewiston, and Lee (Linda) Henry of St. Charles; his grandchildren, Anita (Brian) Werner of Houston, MN, and John (Courtney) Peterson of Lewiston; and his great-grandson, Henry Werner.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Curt (Peggy) Henry and Sandy Henry.

Funeral services will be held at Hoff Funeral Home in St. Charles on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with Reverend John Yule officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at Fremont-Scotch Cemetery.

Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.hofffuneral.com.