Dean H. Ikier

Dean Herman Ikier, age 82, a lifelong Vernon Center resident, died peacefully Wednesday, March 7, 2018 at Mayo Clinic Health System – Mankato.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 12, 2018 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Vernon Center.  Visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m., Sunday at Lake Crystal Mortuary and will continue one hour before service at the church on Monday.  Private family interment will be in Vernon Center Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Dean was born November 25, 1935 to Herman and Gertrude (Kietzer) Ikier in Madelia.  He attended country school and graduated from Garden City High School in 1953.  Dean was married to Onalie Dawley on December 2, 1978.  Dean was a farmer his entire life, retiring in 2006.  He was an active member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church where he volunteered in many capacities.  An avid private pilot, Dean had his own plane and airstrip at the farm.  He enjoyed nature and stewarding the land for future generations.  In his younger years he ran track and cross country, flew model airplanes, and enjoyed drawing, roller skating, bowling, hunting and fishing. Dean was passionate about photography, watching the Timberwolves and Vikings, and visiting with people, but most important in his life was his family.

Dean is survived by his ex-wife, Onalie Ikier of Vernon Center; three children, Steven Ikier of Ithaca, NY, Paul (Lisa) Dehn of Garden City, and Pam Strobel of Eagan, MN; three grandchildren, Gabrielle Dehn, Onalie (Dan) Kriha, and Hailey Strobel; two great-grandsons, Carter and Wyatt Kriha; sister, Marjorie (Stan) Sternitzke of Good Thunder; nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents.