Clinton Ar’Dean ‘Dean’ Britt, 88

Published 11:16 am Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Clinton Ar’Dean “Dean” Britt, 88, passed away on July 6, 2014, at St. Mark’s Memory Care Unit after battling a long-time illness.

Britt

Dean was born Feb. 7, 1926, in Austin, Minn., to Lemuel and Bernice Britt. He grew up in Austin and attended Austin Senior High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 17. He fought in World War II and then re-enlisted to serve in the Korean War. While he was serving, he was captain of his PT boat hauling heavy equipment while under attack.

Dean married Betty Louise Bennett, originally from Ohio, on Jan. 19, 1946. They lived in Austin and had six children from this marriage. Betty passed away in Dec., 1983, after a long battle with Leukemia.

Dean worked for Robbins Furniture Store as a carpet layer for over 40 years. Dean enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. In his younger years he raced cars and enjoyed bowling. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church and also a long-time member of the VFW and American Legion.

Dean married Bonnie Britt in 2001.

Survivors include his wife, Bonnie Britt of Austin; sons, Dean “Tom” Britt of North Carolina, Steven Britt (Sue) of Owatonna, Minn.; daughters, Nancy Britt of Austin, Penny Almlie (Dave) of Houston, Texas, Brenda Moucha of Austin; step-daughter Sheri Escandon (Juan); sisters, Audrey Grage (Hank) of Texas, Jeannine McAllister (Mac) of Austin; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and his furry friend Iggy.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty Louise; a son; a granddaughter; a great-granddaughter; and his faithful cat, Blackey.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2014, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Gerry Giese officiating. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at Mayer Funeral Home and also one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post No. 91, and VFW Post No. 1216.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.mayerfh.com.