2nd District
Prior to being hired by the City of Elyria Fire Department, Dean served in United States Army Reserves from 1993-2001 as a Combat Medic before being honorably discharged. He was hired in the City of Elyria Fire Department in 1995 and became a member of IAFF Local 474.
Dean joined the Water Rescue Team where he was certified as an Emergency Response Diver, Ice Rescue Diver, and Swift Water Technician. He also was a member of the Lorain County Tech Rescue Team, becoming certified in Structural Collapse, Trench Rescue, Rope Rescue, Confined Space and Hazmat Technician. He also holds certifications as a Fire Instructor, CPR Instructor, Fire Inspector and Fire Officer I, II, III, IV. He currently holds the rank of Assistant Chief.
Dean did not wait long to become involved in the Union serving as a Shift Steward, Vice-President, and President, a position he has held since 2008. In 2020 Dean was honored when he received the IAFF Leadership award representing the 8th District. He has served on multiple OAPFF committees and currently is a member of the OAPFF Legislative Committee. He is proud that he has a Brother and two Sons that are on the job and members of the OAPFF.
He is married to his wife Cindy and has three sons, Matt, James and Nate.