Dean Scansen
Posted Dec 17, 2025 | 10:07 AM
Dean Warren Scansen passed into the presence of his Lord on December 4, 2025 at 1:30 pm. He passed away peacefully at home with family members who cared for him by his side.
Dean was born on December 8, 1926, in Crichton, SK to Melvin Oscar and Alma Othelia Scansen. His first language was Norwegian. He attended Boule Creek School where he learned English and the Good Morning song he still sang until his passing. He was confirmed at 15 and had a deep and abiding faith in God his entire life. When playing pretend with his siblings, he often played the role of minister and performed various ceremonies such as baptizing his sister’s doll.
As a young man, he moved from Cadillac to Prince Albert where he met his future wife, Hazel Barton. They married on August 14, 1954, and shared 55 years together until her passing in 2009. Together, they raised 4 children and cared for foster children and senior citizens. They were very hospitable and regularly welcomed friends and family into their home for meals and visits. They also enjoyed serving in the church and treasured the many friendships they made there.
Dean had many jobs throughout his life including farm work in Texas, where he experienced many adventures on his travels. He also worked for Northern Wood Preservers, was a tractor mechanic at Thompson’s Tractor, owned Scansen General Store in Foxdale which also included the role of Postmaster, worked at Wendland’s farm equipment in Rosthern, the Co-op Gas Station, Co-op Implements Farm Equipment as parts manager, and co-owned Little Hobo “Rendezvous” Soup and Sandwich Shop in Kelowna.
Dean was a devoted husband and father who would do anything for his family. Cheerful, supportive, loving and kind – he was the best Dad anyone could ask for. He also shared a very special relationship with his granddaughter, Alayna. Best friends from the time she was born, her Pappy was with her almost every day of her life.
He was an anomaly for a man of his age: he was still driving into his 90’s and had an amazing ability to recall details of family history and life stories.
He could be found on any given evening rooting for his favorite teams in hockey, baseball, or football, solving a crossword puzzle, singing hymns, or yodelling along to his favorite singer – Wilf Carter.
He loved his sweets and never refused a dessert, even if he claimed previously that he couldn’t eat another bite of supper.
Dean was a gentle, easy-going man who was always quick to smile and laugh and make you feel welcome. He will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, thoughtfulness, love, generosity, and patience.
He is survived by his son Scott O’Neil (Vernon Scansen) and daughter-in-law Anne; his daughter Lenore Nye, son-in-law Dem and his dear granddaughter Alayna; his daughter Kathy Reid, son-in-law Dan and their children Kirstin, Jordan, Kelsey (Stephen) Hollis & Jania; his sister Jean Barker, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was predeceased by his wife Hazel (nee Barton) Scansen and son Brian Scansen; his parents Melvin & Alma Scansen; his brothers Earl Scansen, twin boys who died in infancy, Aron Scansen, Wilferd Scansen; his sisters Corrine Scansen, Viola Barclay, Marlene Picard; his parents-in-law, Lillie and Ab Barton; his brothers-in-law Bob Barker, Al Barclay, Ray Picard, Herb Barton, Louis Haakensen, and Bob Thomson; sisters-in-law Fran Scansen, Wilma Haakensen, Clara Thomson, Erma Scansen, Eva Scansen, and Annie Barton.
Thank you to my husband Dem and my daughter Alayna for all the help caring for Dad all these years. I couldn’t have done it without them — I’ll be forever grateful and Dad was always so appreciative and thankful.
We love him so much and his presence in our home and daily lives will be deeply missed.
Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home and Crematorium, Marianne Turcotte, Funeral Director, Prince Albert, SK 306-763-3322.
- Date : 2025-12-04
- Location : -