Dean A. Slavens, 82, of Columbia City, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, May 16, 2023, peacefully at his home. Born July 29, 1940 in Lafayette, he was the son of Roy and Hazel (Thomas) Slavens.

He graduated from Delphi High School and received his bachelor's degree from Manchester College. He furthered his education with a Master's Degree from Northern Illinois University, and Post Grad Work at Ball State University. On May 27, 1960, he married his high school sweet heart Janice K. Rider in Wabash, Indiana. For over 40 years, Dean was an educator. He retired from North Side High School as an Advanced Biology Teacher along with being a track and cross country coach for 52 years. He attended Emmanuel Community Church and was a member of the Indiana Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches.

Dean is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Tammy Runyan-Glover and William Glover; daughter and son-in-law, Sonya and Brian Emerick; granddaughter, Tia Runyan; grandsons, Brent (Liza) Emerick, Bradley (Ashley) Emerick and Eric Emerick; great-grandchildren, Elliana, Britain, Lachlan, Wells, Evelyn and expecting one more this summer; several nieces and nephews; and an extension of many track and cross country athletic family members. Along with his parents and a brother, Ronald Slavens, Dean was preceded in death by his loving wife of 56 years, Janice Slavens on January 9, 2017.
 
A celebration of life will be held at 1pm Sunday, May 21, 2023 at The Taylor Barn, 5355 E. 700 S., Columbia City with Pastor Gary Dilley of Emmanuel Community Church officiating. A visitation with family and friends will follow the service from 2 to 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in Dean's memory to North Side High School for the Track and Cross Country Teams. Donations can be mailed to DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN 46725. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send Dean's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.