Dean McKinney, 97, a lifelong resident of South Canaan was peacefully welcomed into the arms of our Lord at his residence surrounded by loved ones on January 27, 2021. He joined his wife of 59 years, the former Doris McHenry who passed away in 2004.
Born November 20, 1923 to the late Delbert and Francis Schaffer McKinney of South Canaan, Dean was
well-loved and known by many. Dean’s commitment to his community and gentle kindness touched the lives of many. For those who knew Dean, he was affectionately known as “Pap.”
Pap’s journey started on the family farm where he produced dairy – he was very fond of
his Guernsey cows, and vegetables. While managing the farm, he went on to work for PennDot as a Construction Road Inspector, retiring after 20 years. After retirement, Pap and his beloved wife Doris enjoyed delivering the Wayne Independent throughout the local community, where he created many life lasting relationships.
In the early 1970s, Dean became a novice Airplane Pilot at the Cherry Ridge Airport and
was often found at the Diner there, enjoying a Sunday meal with his family. His grandchildren and
great-grandchildren share many fond memories of these times.
Throughout his life, he took pride in his faith, serving the Lord in many capacities as a lifelong member
of the Free Methodist Church of South Canaan. Dean and Doris shared the love of their faith by enjoying
Sunday worship together with their family.
The simplest pleasures in life brought an abundance of joy to Pap. He truly loved his family and rarely missed the opportunity to celebrate a birthday with cake and coffee. He was extremely proud of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great- great grandchildren.
Whether helping a neighbor, watching ball games and concerts, running an errand for his son, or the steady over-watch of his grandson’s farm, Dean always had a smile on his face and strong words of encouragement.
Dean is preceded in death by his two sisters, Marion Ransom and Ruth E McKinney. Dean is survived by his son Roger McKinney Sr. and Dawn of South Canaan; grandchildren Lisa Mousley and husband Howard of Ledgedale; Roger McKinney Jr and companion Rebecca Carroll of South Canaan; Frank Lockwood North Carolina; and William McKinney of Scranton; eleven great-grandchildren, ten great-great grandchildren.
The family would like to recognize his caregivers who tirelessly provided care in his last years – Michaela
Zdziarski, Rebecca Carroll, Lisa McKinney, and Marisa McKinney, as well as the Interim Health care staff
Rayna, Jesse, and Marissa and everyone else who jumped in and helped as needed.
The Funeral Service will be Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 11:00 AM in the Free Methodist Church of South Canaan with services by Rev. William Rushik, Pastor.
Friends may call from 10:00 AM until the time of service in the East Room at the Church.
All CDC guidelines such as social distancing and use of facial coverings will be observed.
Private Interment, Simon Cemetery, South Canaan.
Arrangements have been entrusted to and are under the care and direction of James Wilson Funeral
Home, Lake Ariel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dean’s memory may be made to: The Lake Ariel Volunteer
Fire Company, PO Box 31, Lake Ariel, Pa 18436 or Dessin Animal Shelter, 138 Miller Dr. Honesdale, Pa
18431
For directions, to share a memory, or to leave a condolence for the family please visit
www.jameswilsonfuneralhome.com
Burial Date February 2, 2021
Cemetery Simon Cemetery
Church Free Methodist Church of South Canaan
The Funeral Service will be Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 11:00 AM in the Free Methodist Church of South Canaan with services by Rev. William Rushik, Pastor.
Friends may call from 10:00 AM until the time of service in the East Room at the Church.
All CDC guidelines such as social distancing and use of facial coverings will be observed.
Private Interment, Simon Cemetery, South Canaan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dean’s memory may be made to: The Lake Ariel Volunteer
Fire Company, PO Box 31, Lake Ariel, Pa 18436 or Dessin Animal Shelter, 138 Miller Dr. Honesdale, Pa
18431
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