Dean J. Adams

Dean J. Adams passed away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on July 11, 1946, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dean's life was marked by a warm spirit, culinary talent, and a dedication to the people he loved. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy of kindness, humor, and love endures.

Dean is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Mary, and their son, Michael (married to Manisha Shah Adams). He was a cherished grandfather to Marissa, Holden, Hannah Shree and Lyndsey. Dean was the last surviving brother of his siblings, preceded in death by Fred (married to the late Barb) Adams, Gene Adams, Donna Lee (married to the late Bob) Bergold, Brian (married to Lonnie) Adams, and siblings-in-law, the late Dorothy (married to the late Gerald) Bump, the late Suzanne Wysocki, the late Shirley Rogahn, the late Beverly (married to the late Patrick) Foster, and Betty Wicht. He will also be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews, Mark, Scott, and Bruce Bergold, Jarret (Heather) Adams, Mindy (Bobby) Marques, Justin (Sue) Adams, Colleen (Chris) Marx, Peggy (Dan) Mystrow, Patty (Mark) Wiedenhoeft, Kathleen (Tim) Fischer, Joseph Bump, Andrea (Chad) Kernats, David (Carrie Plato) Rogahn, other relatives, and a host of friends.

Dean was a proud graduate of Wauwatosa East High School in 1964. He pursued his culinary passion at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), launching a remarkable career that spanned over 35 years, including 31 years with Milwaukee County. Dean had notable roles at Oakwood Golf Course and Whitnall Park and later served as Assistant Concessions and Catering Coordinator at the Milwaukee County Zoo, where he was renowned until his retirement in 2004.

Dean's passion for food was surpassed only by his deep affection for the company he shared it with. He believed that every meal was an opportunity to create cherished memories with family, friends, and the countless patrons he served. His kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and joy, where everyone felt welcome.

Outside the kitchen, Dean found peace in the quiet of fishing, the camaraderie of Flat Lake camping trips, and the enjoyment of golfing and bowling with friends. Dean was also an avid beer tap handle collector, amassing an incredible collection of 1300 handles during the course of his life.

A natural storyteller, Dean had a knack for making people laugh, often sharing a joke or a funny tale that would brighten the day. Those who knew Dean will remember him as the epitome of kindness. His sense of humor and generosity touched the lives of everyone he came in contact with. With a heart as big as his stature, he had an extraordinary ability to uplift spirits and spread laughter. His passing is a loss to all who had the privilege of knowing him, but the memories he created will be cherished forever.

As we say farewell to Dean, we hold tight to the laughter and the moments that he gave us. Dean's life was a recipe for happiness, love, and family—ingredients that will continue to nourish us all in the years to come.

A celebration of life will be held at the Milwaukee County Zoo on Saturday, September 21, 2024. Guests can use the attached barcode, located on Dean's Tribute wall tab, for free admission and parking at the zoo. The zoo is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and we invite you to stroll through the grounds and cherish the memories of Dean. The celebration itself will be held from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Flamingo Multipurpose Room, located inside the main entrance between the gift shop and the Flamingo Cafe. A luncheon will be held from 12:30 - 2:30 PM.

Memorials to the family are appreciated and  will go towards a memorial bench for Dean at the Milwaukee County Zoo.