Norman Dean Crossman, affectionately known to all simply as "Dean", passed away peacefully doing what he loved most ... fishing for trout at Roaring River, Mo.
Born on March 4, 1940 to Harry Crossman Sr and Viola Mae Downing in Bison, Okla., Dean lived a life marked by resilience, dedication, humor, and an unwavering love for his family and community.
As a young boy, Dean survived a severe burn injury that doctors said would leave him unable to walk. But true to his determined spirit, he defied the odds - not only learning to walk again but going on to play high school sports. That same grit and strength would define the rest of his life.
Dean married the love of his life Dianne (Wulf) Richardson on the most romantic day of the year February 14, 1967. In 2025 Dean and Dianne celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary!
Dean proudly served in the Air Force National Guard, retiring after more than 25 years with the 184th Jayhawk Air Wing Motor Pool. He also retired after working for 33 years as a Meterman for Western Resources—also known as Kansas Gas & Electric and later Evergy— earning the respect and friendship of many along the way.
A devoted Ford man, Dean never owned anything but a Ford vehicle. Known for his quick wit, he was famous for ribbing his Chevy-driving friends, often walking them over to their truck with a grin and asking, "Can you hear it rusting just sitting here?"
Dean also had a passion for coaching and mentoring. He coached his children — Selinda, Greg, Roger and Jason — as well as many young athletes over the years. Former players often reached out to tell him how much he meant to them.
Dean is survived by his loving wife, Dianne, and their children: Selinda Martin and her husband Pat Martin of Salina, Gregory Richardson (deceased) and his wife Melinda Richardson of Winfield, Roger Grossman and his wife Michele Crossman of Olathe, and Jason Crossman and his wife Traci Grossman of Mulvane. He was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, each of whom brought joy to his life and many stories to his legendary fishing trips! He is also survived by two sisters, Harriet Oiler and Linda Sexton; five brothers: Darrell Grossman, James Grossman, Jack Grossman, Dwight Grossman, Larry Grossman, and many many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, Gregory Richardson; his parents; and three brothers: Donald Crossman, Harry "Bud" Crossman Jr, and Duane Crossman
Dean's life was a testament to perseverance, service, and love. Whether he was fixing a truck, telling a joke, coaching a game, or casting a line into the water, he did it with passion and joy. His resilience inspired many, and his laughter brightened every room.
• Celebration of life services will be at 12:30 p.m. Saturday June 14, 2025 at Bethany Lutheran Church & School at 1000 West 26th Street S in Wichita.
Burial will take place at 3 p.m. Saturday June 14, 2025 at St Paul Lutheran Cemetery at 35100 West Harry Street in Cheney.
Dean will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Rest easy, Dad. May the fish always bite, and may your Fords run forever and never rust!
