Dean Richard "Dick" Gleason, 92

Dean Richard "Dick" Gleason age 92, passed away peacefully, April 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born November 22, 1933 to Helen and William Gleason in Windom, MN. Dundee MN was where he spent his childhood then graduated from Fulda High School in 1951. He met Patricia Fairbrother at a roller-skating rink on her 14th birthday and they were married 5 years later. They recently celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary.

Dick enlisted in the army during the Korean Conflict. After his discharge, he was employed at Central Lumber Co. in Windom, MN and later transferred to East Grand Forks Central Lumber Co. where he was the manager. From there, he became the founder and co-owner of Valley Lumber Co. where he specialized in potato warehouses throughout the tri-state area. He was involved in several other businesses as well.  He later became the sole owner of Porta Mix Concrete. He sold the company in 2021 and reluctantly retired at the age of 87!

Dick and Pat traveled the world together. Favorite destinations were Ireland, the Mediterranean, Rio de Janeiro as well as many other places both near and far. Summers were spent at their home in East Grand Forks, MN as well as the cabin on Potato Lake which the family thoroughly enjoyed. Winters in later years were spent at their home in Apache Wells, Mesa, AZ., where they enjoyed many good times with friends.

Dick and Pat recently moved to "The Waters" in Eden Prairie, MN to be closer to family.

Dick was an avid sportsman who enjoyed many hunting and fishing trips with his buddies. He also loved boating with his family, bowling, golfing, as well as restoring and collecting antique cars. Needless to say, he lived life to the fullest. He was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church, the Kem Temple Shriners, Builders and Traders, as well as other organizations.

He was preceded in death by his parents Helen and Bill Gleason; brother, Eldon (Jr); sister, Gaye Doeden; and daughter Michelle Gleason.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Pat; daughter, Robin Burich (Steve); son, Mike Gleason (Jan); granddaughter, Breanne Burich (Matt); sisters, JoAnn

Christensen and Patti Cluff (Tom); brother-in-law, Gary Fairbrother (Gerrie), and many other family members and friends.

Dick had a strong work ethic, resilience, a good sense of humor, dedication to family, and was a good friend to all he knew. He will be missed. We would like to thank "The Waters" and Grace Hospice for their care.

A celebration of life for his family and close friends will be held in Chanhassen, MN in the future.

Memorials may be sent to Shriners Children's Hospital MN or St Jude's Children's Hospital