Thursday, October 1, 2026
Dean Ancil Bert Blevins, 91, of Gig Harbor, Washington, and a longtime resident of Edmonds, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Dean was born November 15, 1933, in MacIntosh, Minnesota, to Windsor and Elva Blevins. He grew up in Edmonds, where he developed the values that guided his life: faith, family, service, hard work, and compassion for others.
Dean proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as a medic aboard the aircraft carrier USS Wasp. Following his military service, he attended Central Washington State College, where he met JoAnn, the love of his life. They married and shared 66 wonderful years together.
In 1960, Dean and JoAnn built their family home in Edmonds’ Meadowdale neighborhood, where they raised their three children. In 2019, they moved to Gig Harbor, remaining close to family and friends.
Dean devoted his professional life to education as a teacher, coach, mentor, and role model. He taught at Crown Hill Elementary, Blaine, and Whitman junior highs, and coached football and track at Queen Anne, Ballard, and Ingraham high schools.
He took great pride in encouraging young people to recognize their abilities and reach their full potential. His influence extended far beyond the classroom and athletic field, touching the lives of countless students, athletes, colleagues, and families.
Dean was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and the Sons of Norway. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, skiing, fishing, and camping, but his greatest joy was spending time with JoAnn and his family. He had a remarkable gift for making friends and treasured the relationships he built throughout his life.
Dean is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnn; children Brian, Lori (Bill Schilling), and Tim (Connie Blevins); grandchildren Jordan, Austin, Kelsey, Dawson, Cole, and Taylor (Colin Greeley); and sister Fern (Don Blevins). He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Viola, Wilna, Vesta, Gerry, Merle, Ken, and Don.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 6215 196th St. SW, Lynnwood.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, a veterans organization, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Dean will be remembered for his love of family, commitment to service, generosity of spirit, and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
