R. Dean Crook, 91, of North Platte, passed away December 22, 2012 at Linden Court. Dean was born January 3, 1921 in Paxton to William J. and Ruth (Louden) Crook. He grew up in Paxton and graduated from Paxton High School. After graduation he went to California and worked in an air craft factory until entering the Merchant Marines in June of 1942. He served four years during WWII. On Dec. 22, 1946, he married Virginia Coleman of Paxton. They were married 66 years on the day of his death. Dean was a member of the Bethel Evangelical Free Church. He was a charter member of the Art Gallery and The Wood Carvers Club. He retired from the Union Pacific Railroad in 1982. Survivors include his wife, Virginia; sons, Rex of Denver, CO, Mark (Becky) of Tigard, OR; a daughter, Cathy (Dennis) Collins of North Platte; six grandchildren, Katie, Cassie, Stephanie, Jessica, Joshua and Ashley; three great grandchildren; a sister, Marcelle (Norman) House of North Platte; a brother, Gary (Rosa) Crook of Omaha; and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a grandson, Jordan Collins. Online condolences may be shared at www.carpentermemorial.com. Cremation was chosen. A memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 7, 2012 at Bethel Evangelical Free Church with Rev. Dan Reimer officiating. Inurnment will be at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell. Carpenter Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.