Dean Brent Mihalick

Dean Brent Mihalick passed away at home on November 17, 2024 at 3:42pm. He was born November 16, 1965 to Brent and Bettylou Mihalick in Ashtabula Ohio. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Dennis and Ellen Mihalick, his maternal grandparents Elaine and Carmen Sandella, and his father Mike Evans. He was a devoted husband, loving son and brother, a loving father, and proud grandfather. He is survived by his wife Sheila, his mother Bettylou Hinkle, his brothers Mark (Theresa) Mihalick, Chris ( Raina) Evans and Sean Evans his children Kayli Mihalick, Joe Mihalick, Brandon Mihalick, Amanda Testerman, Amy (Anthony) Campofredano, and C.J Testerman and his grandchildren Alexis, Joey, Paige, and Kinley and many nieces and nephews.

From an early age, Dean displayed the curiosity and resourcefulness that would define his life. He is said to have taken off all the door knobs with a butter knife at just the tender age of five, a testament to his natural inclination for fixing and building. Dean was a man of many passions but his greatest love was for the water, spending countless hours fishing from the bank canoe in the river or on his beloved boat on lake Erie with his fishing buddies. His skills as a master fisherman were well known and he found joy in every cast and catch. Dean could be found meticulously cleaning his boat or preparing the day’s catch to share with his wife, family and friends. As a retired union carpenter and Navy veteran, Dean was known for his tenacity and strong work ethic. He graduated from Geneva High School and Ashtabula County Joint Vocational School in 1984. He then served four years in the United States Navy before honing his skills as a carpenter. He ran a tight ship at work, yet his true passion lay in teaching and mentoring, ensuing those around him. His family was also the center of his world. Dean met and married Sheila in 2005, they just celebrated their 19 Anniversary together. Dean’s heart was enormous and he was not shy to teach life lessons with his sometimes stubborn demeanor. He had the kind of strength and determination that inspired respect and admiration from all who knew him. In the winter while others sought the warmth, Dean sought the thrill of ice fishing. He would relish in the calm and the challenge it offered. He never wasted a moment and would always find purpose whether it was fishing, building something, spending time with family, or doing the dishes. Dean’s humor was as big as his heart. He was blunt, and also loved making jokes as it was central to his character. It was his hope that everyone would experience the profound love he shared with Sheila – saying he was the richest man and did not need to win the lottery.

To honor Dean’s life Calling hours will be Thursday November 21 from 6-8 PM at Behm Funeral Home in Geneva followed by services Friday November 22 at 11 AM. Followed by a Celebration of life at Driftwood Point 6827 Lake Road West in Geneva Dean’s legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com