Dean Scott Ohlsen, 62, of Netawaka, KS passed away October 25, 2017 at his home with his family by his side after a courageous 10 year battle with colon cancer. He was born January 28, 1955 in Horton, KS the son of Bernard and Betty (Keeler) Ohlsen.

Dean graduated from Jackson Heights High School in 1973 and attended Highland Community College.

He worked for his family owned business Ohlsen Construction, working in many states including Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, California, Colorado and Nebraska. He was a steward of the earth, working also as a farmer and stockman.

He was a member of the Soldier Christian Church.

Dean married his high school sweetheart, Karen Durst on February 14, 1980 in Sabetha, KS, she survives of the home. Other survivors include his father Bernard Ohlsen, a brother; Eric Ohlsen (Jenny) and a sister Nancy Blum (Mark) all of Whiting, KS. He is also survived by 8 nieces and nephews and 12 great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Ohlsen.

A Fellowship Meal will be served starting at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 1, 2017 at the Whiting Gym. Following the meal there will be a Celebration of Dean’s Life. In lieu of flowers, the family strongly suggests memorials be given to the Soldier Christian Church or the Holton Community Hospital Hospice c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visitwww.mercerfuneralhomes.com.