Our industry lost one of its most respected and admired professionals with the passing of William Dean this past summer. Bill, who had most recently held the position of director of engineering for Sage Parts, proudly served the aviation marketplace for nearly a quarter of a century.
Bill’s unwavering commitment to colleagues throughout the industry both in the United States and internationally, along with his continual dedication to a job well done and his genuine warmth, will be remembered by all who knew him.
Before joining Sage Parts in 2001, Bill was vice president of sales and marketing for Charlatte of America. Prior to that, he served first as chief engineer for Hi-Way Corporation and then in the same capacity for Stewart & Stevenson. During his distinguished career Bill also served as vice president of engineering and was part owner of Ramp Equipment Inc. and he was manager of engineering for FMC.
In addition to his love for aviation from a career standpoint, Bill was himself an avid recreational flyer. Together with his father he owned and often flew a small Cessna. He also enjoyed motorcycles, as well as boating and would spend many carefree hours aboard his beloved 31-foot sport fishing vessel named, not surprisingly, “Bahama Mama.” If he wasn’t out on the water, Bill could usually be found reading or pursuing another of his passions — cooking, particularly the creation of Thai dishes.
Bill Dean passed away at the age of 56 on July 23, 2005. He will be deeply missed.
