Everett “Dean” Behnke, age 71, passed away on Saturday January 7, 2023, at 2:10 a.m. at Arabella Assisted Living in Red Oak, Texas where he had resided for the past 16 months.

     He was born November 25,1951, in Flora, Illinois to Joseph and Pearletta (Grogan) Behnke Jr.

     Preceding him in death were his maternal grandparents: Carl and Anna Virginia Grogan; paternal grandparents: Joseph and Viola Behnke; and parents: Joseph and Pearletta Behnke Jr.

     Surviving are a sister: Ramona (Sam) Anderson of Corpus Christi, Texas; a brother: Wayne (Mary) Behnke of Kamiah, Idaho; a sister: Rose (John) Elizondo of Ferris, Texas; a sister: Leesa Green of Bradenton, Florida; and  an aunt: Mary (John) Conner of Flora, Illinois.

     Dean was an Army veteran who served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged on June 15,1979.  Horton, Kansas was his home for over 20 years where he lived in a little house planted within an entire city block of lavish lawn and trees.  An outdoor enthusiast, he created his own eutopia there.  He had a passion for horses, mules, and just about any kind of animal.  “Animals are simple, people are complicated,” he’d say.  Dean had a personality that was quick to boil and quick to cool, but his heart was hugely forgiving, and he was always ready to apologize and hug.  His love for all his siblings was boundless and despite the pain in his body, he was always ready to muster a big teddy bear smile.

     A funeral ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Interment will follow in Floral Garden of Memories Cemetery with the presentation of military funeral honors.  Visitation will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. on Monday evening, January 16, at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to the Disabled American Veterans and checks will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com