Dean Calkins

Calkins, Dean W. MADISON - Dean W. Calkins, age 69, of Madison, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007, at University Hospital. He was born on Sept. 13, 1938, in Chicago, Ill., the son of Cletus and Helen (Hall) Calkins. Dean was a veteran, having served U.S. Army. He was united in marriage to Joan Svenson on June 20, 1964, in Madison. Dean owned and operated a print company for several years and later went on to work for the Department of Corrections for the remainder of his career. Dean was a member of Luther Memorial Church, a charter member of the Friendship Force of Wisconsin, enjoying several trips to Russia and hosting international families. He was actively involved with Paddle and Portage for 25 years and more recently with the Ironman competition for the past three years. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially being on the water, boating and diving, being a member of the original Madison Diving Club. Dean also enjoyed cooking, ethnic foods was one of his favorites. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Joan; two daughters, Christine Calkins and Carrie Calkins; and a grandson, Zane Edge, all of Madison. Dean was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Michael; a sister in infancy, Teresa; and his step-father, Lester Utesch. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, at 11:30 a.m., on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2007. Burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., on Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the Friendship Force of Wisconsin. A special thanks to the staff at University Hospital and Clinics, for their excellent care over the years. Also to the Madison EMS and E.R. staff for their compassionate care and kindness.