Dean William Holderman

Dean William Holderman, of Casa Grande; a devout Catholic, beloved husband, son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend passed away in the company of his family on March 2, 2024 at the age of 89.

Dean was born in Mogadore, Ohio, in 1934 to Forrest and Lydia (Stevens) Holderman. As a youth, he enjoyed helping his father on the farm, playing football, and yearly family fishing trips to Canada. In 1956, Dean married his high school sweetheart, Clara Wise. Together they had 5 children which they raised in Chandler, Arizona. In 1959, Dean and Clara moved to Chandler to join Dean’s father in running the local family business, the Chandler Bowling Alley. Dean later worked for Coca-Cola Corporation before starting a successful dairy supply business which he continued to operate until passing the reins to his son, Dennis, in 2010. Dean and Clara were married for 52 years until her untimely passing in 2008. Up until his passing, Dean enjoyed meeting friends and family for breakfast at one of his many favorite spots.

Dean’s legacy is a close and loving family. He will be remembered for his sharp mind, quick wit, generous and loving spirit, and making friends wherever he went.

Dean is preceded in death by his wife, Clara; daughter, Diana; granddaughter, Mary Susan; father, Forest; mother, Lydia; and sister, Delores. He is survived by his 4 children, 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren. 

The family will be celebrating Dean and his life on March 12, 2024 at 10:00 am. Service to be celebrated at:

St. Juan Diego Catholic Church

3200 S. Cooper Rd

Chandler AZ 85286

(480) 734-2187

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me: thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. 

Psalm 23:4