Dean Karlen Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Dean Karlen of Aberdeen, South Dakota, who passed away on October 5, 2025 at the age of 83. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

In the soft embrace of remembrance, we recall the profound impact Dean had on those he encountered along his journey. Though Dean may have slipped beyond the veil of mortality, his essence lingers like a faint fragrance in the air, a lingering reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Paul Karlen and Leona Karlen (Zeller). He is survived by: his wife Nancy Bruse; his children, Jalynn, Paula (Kevin) and David (Val); his brother Terry (Barb); his nephew Ronnie (Kristen); his brother Kent (Deb); and his grandchildren, Dillon (Amanda), Tyler (Katelyn), Paige (Morgan) and Karly (Jameson). He is also survived by five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.