Dean Maritt

David Dean Maritt, a beloved husband, father, and grandpa, passed away on May 21, 2024, in Pittsburg, Kansas. Born on December 6, 1931, in Rural Coffeyville, Kansas, Dean led a remarkable life filled with dedication to his family, community service, and hard work.

Dean's journey began at Coffeyville schools and culminated in his graduation from Field Kindley Memorial High School in 1949. His commitment to service was evident as he enlisted in the US Army in 1952, bravely serving in the Korean War until 1954. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Patsy D. Mills, on November 16, 1954. Patsy sadly preceded Dean in death on April 26, 2023. Dean continued his service in the Army Reserves until 1960 when he received an honorable discharge.

Throughout his professional life, Dean made significant contributions to various workplaces. He worked at Continental Can Company before joining the Coffeyville Journal as a registered operator printer from 1956 to 1981. Subsequently, he started working at Coffeyville Refinery where he served as a Board Operator until his retirement in 1996. Dean's courageous spirit also led him to be a firefighter on the first fire brigade within the refinery. He was a dedicated member of the International Union of Operating Engineers.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Dean's passion for serving extended to his community roles. He generously devoted his time to the Robbins School Board and Robbins Cemetery Board while serving as the cemetery sexton for years. Furthermore, Dean and Patsy were longstanding members of Trinity United Methodist Church (previously known as the EUB Church). At Trinity UMC, Dean served as trustee and on the SPPRC while also being recognized as the unofficial handyman.

Described as a quiet man who worked diligently with precision and meticulous record-keeping skills, Dean's humble nature shone through every aspect of his life. In 1961, shortly after welcoming their son David into the world, Dean and Patsy moved into the home he built in rural Coffeyville with so much care and love. Their home became a hub for creating cherished memories with their children and grandchildren over the years. Notably, Dean's efforts included planting thousands of Iris bulbs in their yard specifically for Patsy – a beautiful gesture that continues to bloom today.

At Via Christi Villages surrounded by loved ones, Dean peacefully passed away. He leaves behind a legacy built on love and service that will forever be remembered by those who knew him best.

Dean is survived by his three daughters Debbie Grisolano (Joe), Laura Joseph (David), Lisa Wright (David), and son David Maritt (Lori). His memory will be cherished by his grandchildren Brian Grisolano; Tony (Kadey) Grisolano; Zachary (Samantha) Maritt; Joshua Maritt; Matthew Joseph; Brandon Joseph; Ben Wright; Eric Wright; Julia Wright; and great-grandchildren Luke Grisolano; Landon Grisolano; Ellie Grisolano; Brantley Maritt; Tayler Maritt. He is also survived by his beloved sister Freda Hulet and sister-in-law’s Virginia Maritt and Karan Maritt.

Dean now reunites with his parents James Zachariah Maritt Sr and Opal Ruth (Pool) Maritt, wife Patsy D. (Mills) Maritt, brothers James Z., Orlin E., Dan E., Robert "Bob," sister Helen M. Lucas in eternal peace.

Services to celebrate Dean's life will take place at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1001 W 8th, Coffeyville on May 30, 2024, at 1pm with Pastor Jessica Husted officiating. The burial will take place at Robbins Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to Pat. The family will receive friends on May 29, 2024, from 6-8 pm at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave, also in Coffeyville. The family request contributions made in Dean's memory to be payable to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research or donors’ choice, contributions may be left in care of the chapel. To leave an online condolence, share a memory, or view live streaming of his services, visit Dean's obituary page at www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com