Obituary of Harold Dean Geist
Harold “Dean” Geist, age 64, passed away Tuesday November 9, 2021. Recently residing in Sandy, he lived the majority of his adult life in Clackamas County.
Dean was born in Klamath Falls on September 28, 1957 to Sally and Robert Geist. Following his parents divorce, his mother remarried Lee Creech, who became his adoptive father. The family lived in the Dallas, where he graduated salutatorian from Wahtonka High School in 1975. He attended Oregon State University as a proud Kappa Sigma pledge from 1975 to 1980, majoring in pre-dental studies. After graduating, Dean attended OHSU School of Dentistry, earning his DMD in June 1984. Immediately afterward, he accepted a commission as a U.S. Navy officer in the U.S. Navy Corps. As a Lieutenant Commander of the USS Acadia, he was instrumental in the repair and recovery mission of the USS Stark, which sustained heavy damage and multiple casualties upon being fired upon by Iraqi aircraft in May 1987. A decorated officer, he received the Navy Fleet Marine Force, Sea Service Deployment and Navy Battle E ribbons as well as a Meritorious Unit Commendation and Navy Commendation Medal. He also excelled as an expert marksman.
Upon completing his enlistment in 1988, Dean joined Permanente Dental Associates as a general dentist, with sub -specialties in oral surgery and endodontics. Respected by his colleagues, he served as chairman of the Peer Review Committee for many years, and was Professional Director for multiple clinics in the Kaiser Dental program. He met his wife Alyson in 1990, they married in 1993, settling in Milwaukie to raise their family.
Dean had many interests. Golf, scuba diving(warm water only!) intricate model ship building, hunting, fishing, target practice, watching and attending football (Go Beavs!) and soccer (Go Thorns!) games were among his pastimes. He was an avid reader snd talented artist. Dean also earned his private pilot’s license.
Dean’s family and friends enjoyed his dry wit. Referred to as a “cowboy “ by both patients and colleagues, he was formidable presence to all.
Dean is survived by his wife Alyson, children Natalie (Ransom), Gage (Jon), Annabella (Elliot); grandchildren Deacon, Hazel, and River; father Lee(Carol). He is pre deceased by his mother, Sally.
A memorial will be held at a later date, TBD.
Until we are together again, my love. AUG
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