Dean H. Dorton, 87, lifelong resident of Goodland, passed away at 12:30 PM Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at IU North Hospital of Carmel.

He was born March 23, 1936, in Goodland to the late Donald B. and Ardis Pearl (Hood) Dorton.

Dean was a 1956 graduate of Goodland High School. Following high school, he proudly served in the United States Army stationed in Germany and returned to the States to serve in the National Guard.

His marriage was to Phyllis Illingworth on December 29, 1962, in Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church of Goodland. Phyllis passed away on December 24, 2019.

Dean worked 32 years for Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) until he retired in 1991. He was a member of American Legion Post 280 and an avid sportsman. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing, basketball, and softball. Dean cherished his time spent with his family and attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.

He is survived by children, Michael (wife: Carrie) Dorton of Westfield, Christine (husband: Jim) Norris of Mechanicsville, MD, and Douglas (wife: Tia) Dorton of Westfield. Grandchildren, Ryan (wife: Megan) Dorton of West Lafayette, Rachal, Bryce, and Trey Dorton of Westfield, Jonathan (wife: Courtney) Lowe of Leonardtown, MD, Tara Turner (Daniel McWilliams) of Rensselaer, and Kayla (husband: Matt) Strohmeyer of Bloomington, IN. Great-grandchildren, Codie McWilliams, Alyssa McWilliams, Griffin Dorton, Arden Dorton, and Elijah Strohmeyer.

Preceding him in death along with his wife and parents are sisters, Marilyn Heistand, Marcelyn Goetz, and Connie Blankenship.

Friends may call from 9:00 AM (CST) until the time of Funeral Mass 10:00 AM (CST) Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Kentland. Interment to follow in Goodland Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Dean’s name to American Legion Post 280, The American Cancer Society or to Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church. 

Please share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com.