William Mark Dean, known as 'Mark,' was born on March 26, 1959, in Odessa, TX, to Auber Duren Dean and Mary Frances Dean (Manning). He was their firstborn son, followed several years later by his younger brother, John Kent Dean, known as 'Kent.'
Mark grew up in a loving, devoutly Christian family and spent his youth in Odessa, where he developed a passion for motorcycles, cars, and a closeknit group of friends. In high school, he learned to weld, a skill that would set the trajectory for his career. After graduating from Odessa High School in 1977, Mark helped a close friend open a welding shop in West Odessa, which primarily served the oil and gas industry. It was during this time that his sons, Jeremy and Justin, were born to him and his first wife, Mary.
Mark's work in the oilfield eventually took him to South Texas. Over the years, he became a jack-ofall- trades in the oil industry, taking on numerous roles, including water truck driver, sandblaster, roustabout crew pusher, and finally a pumper. Mark settled in the small towns of Gonzales, Prairie Lea, and Cost, where he raised his stepdaughters from his second marriage, Rebecca and Sherry. It was here that he developed a love for gardening, wild animals, and the peace of country living. Mark favored homes that were a bit off the beaten path, often on a dirt road, where he could enjoy the evening hours on the front porch, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
After graduation, his youngest son Justin, by then also a welder, joined Mark in Yoakum, TX, and began learning oilfield skills under Mark at JRN Services, where they both worked. Jeremy soon followed, joining the family in the oil industry. Around 2007, the three formed 3D Lease Operating, a company that pumped wells in the Yoakum- Cuero-Victoria area. Mark was proud to pass his knowledge on to his sons, a legacy that would see Justin rise to prominent positions in successful oil and gas companies in the years to come. During this period, Mark remarried and lived in the Yoakum area with his wife and three stepdaughters, Alex, Brittany, and Jamie.
The business eventually led Mark to Weesatche, TX, where he managed numerous wells for Coastline Exploration and Erskine Energy. He fell in love with the small community and eventually made it his final home. It was here that he met his life partner, Roberta 'Bobbi' Updike. Mark and Bobbi spent the last fourteen years together, actively engaged in the community. Bobbi worked at the Weesatche Dance Hall and Cafe, while Mark traded his oilfield gear for ranch boots, tending to animals and ranch operations for local landowner Leroy Landgrebe until he retired in 2024.
Mark cherished Bobbi, and the two supported each other through numerous hardships, including surgeries and illnesses. He found tremendous peace and happiness in caring for the yard and flowerbeds and relaxing on the front porch on quiet Weesatche nights. Bobbi stood by his side until his last day, along with their loyal dogs, notably little 'Deano,' who was always close at Mark’s feet.
Standing tall at 6'6', Mark was frequently asked if he played basketball— a question he would dismiss with a laugh and a nod to his ever-present cigarette. Known for his kindness, wit, and love of the simple things in life, Mark had little interest in climbing career ladders, extensive travel, engaging in politics or following sports teams. Instead, he found joy in the company of others, good food, and making people laugh. He loved music, with a particular fascination for lyrics and storytelling in songs. Over the years, his children spent countless hours swapping songs and artists with 'Dad'.
Even in his final days, Mark's sharp sense of humor never wavered. He joked with hospital staff about a problematic IV pump, suggesting it must have been purchased at a 'garage sale.'
Lighthearted and easygoing, a friend to all who knew him, Mark will be sorely missed. Yet, we find comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his beloved mother and father in Heaven.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the friends and neighbors in Weesatche who have generously supported Mark and Bobbi in countless ways. It's evident why this community was so dear to Mark. The family is also deeply thankful for the compassionate care provided by the staff at Citizen’s Hospital in Victoria.
Mark leaves behind many who loved him, including his life partner, Roberta “Bobbi” Updike of Weesatche, TX; his brother, Kent Dean, and sister-inlaw, Gigi Dean, of Weatherford, TX, along with nephews Logan and Luke Dean; his son, Jeremy Dean, and daughter-in-law, Callie Corpus Christi, TX, and their children, Rhett and Remi Dean; and his son, Justin Dean, and daughterin- law, Trista Dean, of Odessa, TX, and grandsons, Jay and Ricky Dean.
A private celebration of life will be planned for later in October.
In lieu of flowers, Bobbi would ask that donations be made to a local pet shelter of your choosing in memory of Mark. Pets were cherished companions of she and Mark throughout their relationship. Donations may also be made to the American Lung Association. Please forward cards and condolences to Bobbi Updike, P. O. Box 251, Weesatche, TX 77993.
You are invited to sign the online guest book at www.masseyfh. com Arrangements by Massey Funeral Home, Yorktown, Texas 361564-2900.
