ForeverMissed
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After realizing Dean had spent more on their new puppy than on her original engagement ring, Linda dropped a hint or two reminding him of his proposal promise. He had said, “Someday, I hope to give you a much better one.” They spotted a ring in the estate jewelry section at a favorite store, but soon after the owner told Linda it had been sold. 


When Christmas Eve arrived, two presents caught Linda’s eye. One was the size of a ring box. It turned out to be a ring holder with a note promising to find another special ring. The other present was obviously a collectible Waterford plate from Linda’s wish list. Inside that box, alongside the plate, hidden in tissue paper was the ring! 


That’s a Christmas Zinger – a final gift of Christmas designed to wow! Dean was often on the hunt for this type of gift. He always put a lot of thought into what he put under the tree. But he didn’t need to be Santa Claus, as the love he showed every day was the perfect gift. 


He loved Christmas. He loved it even more than bellyaching about Linda’s latest vision for holiday décor. Despite his complaints, his cheeks would flush with excitement when it all came together. 


Dean carried the spirit of giving throughout the year helping when he could. He would check on neighbors’ homes when they were away or care for their little ones even on short notice. 


Born at Midway Hospital in St. Paul at 3:20 a.m. on February 10, 1946, he weighed more than 9 lbs. and had dark brown hair. A note penned by his mother in his baby book reads, “Dean, you have brought so much sunshine into our lives.” His dad wrote, “You are daddy’s sweet little man. He thinks you are just it.” 


Raised near Grundy Center, Iowa, Dean’s early years were filled with wrestling matches, football games and lots of early mornings and hard work on the family farm. There were youth events with The Ivester Church of the Brethren and also 4H cattle shows to earn money for college.


Linda first caught sight of 13-year-old Dean at a regional church gathering. Singing from the stage, she saw him in the crowd. First, she noticed his eyes and then she saw he was wearing a suit and tie, different from the other boys. Later she spotted him lugging chairs instead of playing catch and asked a friend, “Do you know who that guy is?” She only got his name at that time. She heard the name again on the way to McPherson College in 1964, learning from one of Dean’s neighbors that he would be in her freshman class. 


Linda would say hi to Dean as they passed each other between classes at Harnley Hall. And Dean asked her to Homecoming. Linda was impressed with his dancing. After the event wrapped up, she suggested they take a walk. He agreed and took her hand. Their hands always fit perfectly together. Only later did he tell her his feet were so sore that he nearly fell over when she proposed a stroll.


College years brought leadership roles including being voted as Student Council President in his senior year. Dean graduated in1968 and shortly after, on August 9th, married Linda at the Root River Church of the Brethren in rural Preston, MN. As they dashed through the thrown rice and got into his decorated car, Dean turned the key and it wouldn’t start. He looked at Linda in horror thinking the worst, got out and wondered how to fix it.  Meanwhile, Linda happened to glance at the gear shift and noticed Dean had left it in neutral when he had arrived.  She reached over, put it in “Park,” turned the key and it started right off. The look on Dean’s face was priceless when he heard the car start. It took a while, but they both ended up laughing about what happened.     


Dean had decided to become a dentist after an internal debate between that or becoming a physician. He didn’t think he could handle the death thing and decided it would be easier to say, “Sorry, but this tooth can’t be saved.” He also considered he would be able to have more family time as a dentist and occupational tests in high school showed he was skilled in working with his hands. He was accepted into the School of Dentistry at the University of Iowa and he and Linda moved to Marengo, Iowa where she began teaching 3rd grade. Dean joined a carpool and started driving 30 miles facing the sun in the morning and 30 miles facing the sun in the evening and studying every night and weekends. In the summer of 1970, Dean was offered a grant to perform tooth caries research on mice at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Dean and Linda found themselves driving east on I-80 then on the Pennsylvania Turnpike into the city, took a wrong exit and ended up right in the midst of a racial riot. Studying their map in a parking lot, they figured out how to get to the campus and later together on weekends, they explored not only the great history of Philadelphia, but most of the east coast. Linda had to return to Marengo early to start teaching and returned with Dean’s parents who had come to get her as well as tour Washington D.C. with them.  Two weeks later, Dean got in his car and stopping only for gas, drove over 15 hours straight home to Marengo hoping to see Linda before she left for school.  And he made it. 


In the spring of his senior year, Dean, along with two other students, was chosen to be in a pilot Dental Preceptor Program and left the school to specialize in a full-time dental office environment. After receiving his Doctorate of Dental Surgery, Dean and Linda moved to Waverly, Iowa in 1972 to set up a practice. Dean found a house; one he’d only seen in the dark. Together he and Linda worked DIY-style to make it a home. One of their first projects was to find a way to reopen windows painted shut which led to hundreds of others. 


Dean and Linda became parents in 1974 when Derrick was born. Lucas came along in 1980. Dean loved being a dad, even choosing outfits for the boys and taking them for bike rides, fishing, camping and trips Up North.


Dean applied a farm boy work ethic to his dental practice and managed to create such an efficient system that he could see as many as 60 patients a day. He worked to stay current on the latest dental techniques and also served on a dental review board. He had a special knack for performing oral surgery especially extracting wisdom teeth. When it was time for Derrick and Lucas to have theirs removed, he bribed them with “all you can eat” vanilla ice cream afterwards.  


Dean changed people’s minds about dentists and received many thank you notes from his patients. Other patients that had moved from the area were known to schedule their appointments far in advance to make sure they could always continue to see him. He was particularly good with little kids, often asking them, “Can I count your teeth?” He’d squirt them with the air nozzle until they laughed.


Vacations sometimes came with more work as they often coincided with dental conferences and continued learning. The whole family became Iowa Hawkeye fans and for every home game, they would get up before sunrise, hit the road to Iowa City, park in the dental school lot, and  Dean would attend a continuing education course. Tailgating was often chili, chips, apples and Scotcheroos eaten at the yellow fold-out Hawkeye table. Going home would mean turning on WHO, 1040 and listen to the repeat game that they had just seen.   


The family visited international destinations including Italy, Portugal, Ireland, China, Iceland, and Scotland. Along with Derrick and Lucas, Dean witnessed the northern lights and climbed many stories down into a volcanic lava tube.


There were travels stateside too, including one particularly complicated trip that involved several car rentals, a chilly Amtrak train, a plane ride, and numerous destinations.  Each son got a trip with dad to Napa Valley for a wine hunt.


In pursuit of educational opportunities, Linda, Lucas, and Derrick moved to Minnesota in 1994. Dean, dedicated to his family and his work, drove back and forth between the dental practice in Waverly and the family’s home in Eden Prairie for 14 years until he sold his practice. He  wanted to be with his family instead of hearing over the phone what was happening with his family.


Dean really only ever failed at one thing. That was retirement. Inspired by a trip to Italy, the family started a mobile wood-fired pizza business. With Linda making the sauce and supplying party decorations, Lucas manning the fire, and Dean and Derrick working side-by-side to prepare the dough and top the pies. As much as anything, it was a time to be guys together and maybe add to their list of “don’t tell mom” experiences. 


Dean and Lucas also worked together at their church, Mount Olivet Lutheran in Victoria, MN. The creativity and hard work needed to pull off projects – like building an “airplane” to engage the youngest members, constructing a riser, creating a peaceful spot to sit and reflect, or with Linda, decorating planters for the seasons – outweighed the far less fun custodial tasks. Dean took pride in all of it. 


A constant through Dean’s life was his love of dogs. His first canine companion was Sunday Sue. Muffin was Dean and Linda’s $2 pup. Lin-Lu was the one that prompted the new ring. Gucci was adored and easily teased. Diva lived up to her name and loved 'pup cups'. And finally, Godiva. The topper. One of the smartest and most timid dogs you could meet, Dean picked her out and cherished her. She continues to look around the house for him.


Dean enjoyed good Scotch, great wine, weak coffee, and beer brewed by Lucas. He hated the Minnesota State Fair but would usually cave in and go. He always cheered on the Hawkeyes – was often clad in black and gold – and got to watch them best the Minnesota Gophers this year from his hospital room. He was an unlucky fisherman, a woodworker, a tinkerer, and a not-so-secret Outlander fan. He pulled off aviator sunglasses, found a little escape from this weird year in Hallmark Channel movies, and was often skunked in the search for a baked potato or a hat that fit just right. (Love Your Melon helped with that last one!) He sent good morning texts nearly every day. He was soft-spoken and happy to sit quietly in the company of family or friends. He gave great hugs and always had your back. He lived his life with kindness and compassion, and with a deep love of family. 


Dean was very healthy and, along with Linda and Lucas, had started the Keto diet. Dean dove in, seeking out new kinds of flour, learning new recipes, and experimenting with “chaffles” – waffles made with cheese and eggs. We all believed we had many more years with him, but the COVID-19 virus attacked his lungs, and he was unable to recover.


Dean is survived by his wife of 52 years Linda Sheller (Moore), his sons Derrick and Lucas, his daughter-in-law, Derrick’s wife Becky (Nahm), his sister Nancy Haren and her husband Terry, his Uncle Gerald Sheller and Aunt Alice Sheller (Weicksel), his nieces and nephews and his much-loved companion Godiva. He was preceded in death by his father J. Howard Sheller, his mother Katherine (Freed), and his brother Donald Sheller.


Dean Sheller – Linda’s boyfriend and a hero and a best friend to both of his sons – was the perfect gift. And we’d all do anything to have one more Christmas with him.


As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to any of the following charities: 


ASPCA: http://bit.ly/34dAhfC


The American Lung Association: http://bit.ly/3ab37B3


Mount Olivet Lutheran Church: http://bit.ly/3qZaX6y

February 23, 2021
February 23, 2021
It has been over two month since I lost my brother, Dean. It has taken me this long to put my thoughts together. I always looked up to my brother and was proud to be his sister. As kids he was the typical big brother teasing me until I would run to mom! In high school, as a lowly freshman, having a senior brother on the football team was a definite plus! He often gave me advice and I'm sure he looked out for me even though he probably didn't want to admit it. As adults we became friends even though he was a "Hawkeye" and I was a "Cyclone"! I drove to Waverly every 6 months for dental checkups and we would often share lunch or have a chat. During the last couple years of our dad's life, Dean would drive to Grundy Center on Fridays to spend time with him before he drove home to Minnesota. Dad enjoyed really enjoyed these visits! My heart is full but it is also broken. Memories are precious and time helps to heal the heart. I love you bro and I know you are still looking out for me!
January 2, 2021
January 2, 2021
Dear Linda,Derrick and Lucas,
I am so deeply sorry to learn about Dean's passing today in the paper. I am so sorry!
The short time I knew him, I could see the caring father, husband and dog-lover he was. I like to think he is now with Diva and those pups that came before her! Thank you for letting me care for your dogs....give Godiva a hug from me and may God bless you all and bring you peace during this time. Go Cyclones! (Dean would laugh at that one!) Sincerely, Dr. Stephanie Cotten
December 30, 2020
December 30, 2020
Linda, Derrick, and Lucas,
We are so saddened to read of Dean’s death. He truly was our “favorite dentist” for many years! In his quiet, gentle ways he explained procedures and never failed to ask about our family. I was at the office this morning and Carol B. and I talked about what a wonderful man and dentist he was. She said he was great to work for.
We are praying for God’s peace and comfort for all of you in the months ahead. The story posted here about the ring, his pets, volunteering, travels, and being a husband and father is so heartwarming. Thank you for posting it. Love you.
December 29, 2020
December 29, 2020
We are so sad to hear about Dean's passing from COVID! Thankfully, he is a deeply devoted Christian man and we know that he is with our heavenly Father now. 2 Corinthians 5:8 reminds us that (for Christians) "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord!" Our family relied on Dean for his excellent dental care during his entire career! We trusted his expertise and we all have smiles of which he was "proud"! His calm and warm demeanor was amazing and he was such an encouragement to our family when I developed health problems. We ache for your loss, Linda, Lucas and Derrick....and Godiva. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. 
December 29, 2020
December 29, 2020
Thinking of you & your entire family! Dr. Sheller was my dentist for 20+ years until his retirement. He was always so kind and warm...and just like the beautiful tribute the family wrote, he always made dental procedures painless not only by his skills, but also by his kindness (especially to me as a child). May God give you each strength, peace, wisdom and comfort. I am so sorry for your loss. 
December 22, 2020
December 22, 2020
Linda, Derrick and Lucas,
We were so sorry to hear of Dean's death, and we are grateful for the memories shared through this website. Paul has fond memories of the trips to Hawkeye games with the Shellers. Maybe that influenced his early choice of a career in dentistry. We were happy to see Derrick at Paul's wedding and to recently learn of Derrick's marriage. May this Christmas season, when so many mourn family members lost to Covid-19, remind us all of the hope made manifest in the birth of Jesus. We wish you comfort and joy in this time of sorrow.
December 19, 2020
December 19, 2020
Dean was our family dentist. His birthday was one year and one day before mine. Lucas was in Becky's class. AND, Linda and I were room mothers for Becky and Lucas!! Dean was a great and gentle dentist. Fun memories!! We are all so sorry for your loss!!!
December 17, 2020
December 17, 2020
Wayne and I were so happy when Becky and Derrick found each other and that she not only found Derrick but his family as well. When we actually met Dean, Linda and Lucas we were certain she was with a wonderful family. Although we only got to Minneapolis one or two times a year we loved that we got to spend sometime with all of you each time. We have such fond memories of all of the fun and laughter we shared. Our hearts are surely broken and we have shed many tears too but those memories are what will keep us smiling when we remember Dean. Hold on to your memories and each other and your hearts will smile again.  We love all of you.         
Kathy & Wayne
December 17, 2020
December 17, 2020
Nancy although I never met your brother, he sounds like the example of what every brother should be. Based on your kind words I’m sure he felt that you were an example of what a sister should be as well. So sorry about your loss.
December 17, 2020
December 17, 2020
I wasn’t fortunate enough to get to know Dean well, I only just met him at B and D’s wedding, but I do know Derrick well and I know only an amazing human could raise a man that is such a perfect match for my sister. This tribute was amazing and what a life he lived! My heart breaks for all of you, Linda, Lucas, Derrick and Becky! I will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate life now. 

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February 23, 2021
February 23, 2021
It has been over two month since I lost my brother, Dean. It has taken me this long to put my thoughts together. I always looked up to my brother and was proud to be his sister. As kids he was the typical big brother teasing me until I would run to mom! In high school, as a lowly freshman, having a senior brother on the football team was a definite plus! He often gave me advice and I'm sure he looked out for me even though he probably didn't want to admit it. As adults we became friends even though he was a "Hawkeye" and I was a "Cyclone"! I drove to Waverly every 6 months for dental checkups and we would often share lunch or have a chat. During the last couple years of our dad's life, Dean would drive to Grundy Center on Fridays to spend time with him before he drove home to Minnesota. Dad enjoyed really enjoyed these visits! My heart is full but it is also broken. Memories are precious and time helps to heal the heart. I love you bro and I know you are still looking out for me!
January 2, 2021
January 2, 2021
Dear Linda,Derrick and Lucas,
I am so deeply sorry to learn about Dean's passing today in the paper. I am so sorry!
The short time I knew him, I could see the caring father, husband and dog-lover he was. I like to think he is now with Diva and those pups that came before her! Thank you for letting me care for your dogs....give Godiva a hug from me and may God bless you all and bring you peace during this time. Go Cyclones! (Dean would laugh at that one!) Sincerely, Dr. Stephanie Cotten
December 30, 2020
December 30, 2020
Linda, Derrick, and Lucas,
We are so saddened to read of Dean’s death. He truly was our “favorite dentist” for many years! In his quiet, gentle ways he explained procedures and never failed to ask about our family. I was at the office this morning and Carol B. and I talked about what a wonderful man and dentist he was. She said he was great to work for.
We are praying for God’s peace and comfort for all of you in the months ahead. The story posted here about the ring, his pets, volunteering, travels, and being a husband and father is so heartwarming. Thank you for posting it. Love you.
Recent stories
January 23, 2021
I first met Dean and Linda December 2019, I found them both delightful right away and can tell how much they love their dog lady Godiva. I was touched from the very beginning with the professionalism politeness and respect from both of them. They right away became friends of mine not just clients. It took me this long to share perhaps because I’m in denial of the sudden loss. I found them both hilarious to interact with as we worked on Godiva to get her looking pretty. Deans the one that told me the story how lady Godiva got her name, And with the added punch also asked if I knew how peeping Tom got his name? And then explained it to me. We had a good laugh. He was always so generous not just with money but with compliments. I looked forward to every time they came and brought lady Godiva to be groomed. I could tell he was a very patient person. I could tell how much Godiva adored him. I found it both charming and comfortable to watch how him and Linda interacted, they could joke around and tease one another but I knew there was a deep love and commitment there.
Julie Chelman
Critterville self pet wash

Three Guys And An Icelandic Adventure

January 4, 2021
One of Dad's most favorite pastimes was to go and check out new places near and far from home. Iceland turned out to be the last time he was able to travel abroad. Albeit a destination that is rich in history or architecture, Iceland proved to be one of a kind. After coming across a great deal to fly directly from Minneapolis to Iceland, I called up dad and said "What do you think?" He immediately responded "let's get those tickets booked!"  Great decision, dad!

From driving through up to four different weather events in a day, descending into the depths of a lava tube, viewing awe-inspiring landscapes and of course eating some of the most amazing seafood to be found in the North Atlantic, Iceland had it all.

We took many videos of our adventures, but perhaps my most treasured part is the end where we are toasting our trip from a vacation rental nestled at the base of a volcano. Memories made to last a lifetime with a timeless guy.

Decking the halls - From grumbles to grins

December 28, 2020
From candles in the windows to garland on the staircase, and of course a spectacular tree, Dean helped inspire Linda’s visions for Christmas decorations. While Linda usually had the original idea, and Dean might grumble about it at first, he’d often head out and bring back items that would bring the ideas to life. And when it all came together his cheeks would flush with excitement.

In recent years there was an arrangement of holly berries they deconstructed to add a perfect touch to the staircase garland. There were also pre-lit branches that added height and light to the greenery, ornaments and Christmas bears that dressed up the mantel.

The open floor plan of their home meant there were light fixtures, cabinets, shelves, and corners all in need of decorating. Local shops like Provisions and the General Store helped fill the nooks as did gifts from Linda's sister Virginia as well as a delivery or two from QVC.

Dean’s favorites – Wooly snowmen from Cokato, MN – filled the window ledge in the office. Battery operated candles and lights with timers helped impart a sense of magic as the house seemed to start glowing on its own each night.

Hanging outdoor decorations in Minnesota meant getting chilly. And Dean – being a bit naughty – would use Linda as a hand warmer when the job was done.

Each Christmas, Dean, Derrick, and Lucas added to Linda’s collections of special ornaments and sleigh bells. This year Dean had already purchased his annual collectible decorations for Linda. One completed a 10-year series. That ornament was named “love.”

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