Dean E. Matthias

Dean E. Matthias, age 66, of Ripon, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at his home.

Dean was born on November 26, 1959, in Berlin, WI, son of Donald and Delores (Beyer) Matthias. He was baptized and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church in Berlin and graduated from Berlin High School. On September 20, 1980, he married Debra Buelow at First English Lutheran Church in Oshkosh, WI. Dean worked for over 40 years at Alliance Laundry Systems in Ripon, holding various positions over the years. He was also a talented woodworker helping with the construction of a cottage and made various things for his family including a fireplace, deck, playhouse, greenhouse, toy box, etc. He loved bluegrass music and taught guitar in his younger years. He has always shown love and kindness towards animals, caring for pets over the years as well as strays that would come and go – they were always treated like family. Dean enjoyed camping, family vacations, music festivals and road trips across the U.S. as well as travels in Mexico and Hawaii. He also enjoyed frequent rides on his Harley Davidson with friends. Dean also obtained his pilot’s license; restored a Pontiac; enjoyed deer hunting; rooted for the Packers; and always kept busy on the property and enjoyed country living. He loved cooking for his family and grilling out. Dean rarely missed ‘Friday Night Fish,’ enjoying perch and walleye at local eateries. Most of all he cherished time with his family.

Dean is survived by his wife, Debra Matthias of Ripon, WI; two daughters, Tracy Matthias of Ripon, WI and Kelly (Jake) Rademacher of Rosendale, WI; three grandchildren, Silas, August and Selene Rademacher; a brother, David (Cynthia) Matthias of Waukesha, WI; father-in-law, Duane Buelow; two sisters-in-law, Marsha (Bob) Adam, Cheryl (Jeff) Curtin; brother-in-law, Duane (Amy) Buelow; several nieces; nephews; cousins; and an aunt, Daisy Matthias. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Delores Matthias; mother-in-law, Marjorie Buelow and an uncle, Arnold Matthias.

Those who loved him will forever hear his voice in his signature voicemail greeting: “It’s Deano — say hi.”

Visitation for Dean will be held from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Butzin-Marchant Funeral Home, 515 Mayparty Dr., Ripon, WI 54971 with a service to follow at 1:00 pm with Rev. Karin Derenne officiating.

A private burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Berlin, WI. A memorial is being established in his name.