Gary Deen, 81

Gary Alvin Deen, 81, Red Oak, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.
Gary was born Feb. 24, 1943, in Maryville, Mo., the son of Loren and Louise Deen. He had a bright light about him from the time he was born, a smile on his face with a charismatic personality and a side of orneriness that captured everyone’s heart.
Gary married his high school sweetheart, Judy Lancaster, in 1960, and they had four children over the years, Mike, Wes, Chrystal, and Tammy. After years of marriage, they ended their union in friendship and Gary became good friends with Judy’s second husband, Marlan. Gary was a second dad to their son, Jeff. That’s just how big Gary’s heart was.
Gary then met the love of his life, Jackie Pappas. Gary became a bonus dad to her four children, Cindy, Randy, Debbie, and Ronnie. Jackie became a bonus mom to his four children. They made their eight kids into a blended family. Even with some difficulties, there was always love in the home they made, and they are still a strong family today.
Gary and Jackie raised their special needs grandson, Airick Pappas, never giving up on him, showing him love, and helping him become an amazing young man when the odds were stacked against him.
Gary was a one-of-a-kind man with so much love and generosity for his family; he will be greatly missed. He was known for his great sense of humor and loved telling dirty jokes. To know him was to love him …
Gary is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jackie Deen; his eight children; numerous grandkids and great-grandkids; and brother, Donald Deen and his wife Sue; as well as many other relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital, a charity that Gary was very passionate about.
There will be no service at this time, as in accordance with his giving spirit, Gary has gifted his body to the Nebraska Anatomical Board for research.
Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.