Dean Scott Davidson

May 27, 1967 — April 6, 2023

This is no ordinary obituary for an extraordinary man. Dean Scott Davidson was an accomplished engineer, entertaining vocalist, seasoned dutch oven cook, devoted husband, loving father, playful grandpa, witty brother, joyful son and fun uncle.

His death was quick at the age of 55 - unexpected even- he wasn’t bedridden for a day. As adventurous as Dean was, we were surprised his escapades didn’t take him before his tender, loving heart did. He was with family at the 5R ranch enjoying some of his favorite things…camping, four wheeling, storytelling and cooking dutch oven delights. His heart was full but gave out quickly as he now joins loved ones who have passed on before.

Dean was a peacemaker of his family and siblings. He’s the middle man in a large family of 9 kids and his humor came in handy when navigating conflict and cheering others up. His creativity was in full bloom as a persistent teaser, able to come up with a nickname that would stick for life. Being the shortest in the family came with its challenges, however, Dean always worked twice as hard to make sure he didn’t come up short.

His parents, James and Nelda Davidson, couldn’t be more proud of the extraordinary boy he was and exceptional man he became.

He will be missed dearly by his siblings: Linda Whitmore (Jim), Greg (Ruth), Ron (Darla), Randal (Andrea), Janelle Lee (Randy), Jon (Stephanie), Trisa Teerlink (Doug), Steve (Sheree).

Dean was an avid Ute fan. Red to a fault. This guy had the nerve to wear red for every day there was a Ute football game. Never worried about what the surrounding BYU fans at the big game thought. He graduated from Alta High School and then University of Utah, with a degree in Engineering, so we had to respect it.

A previous marriage brought him 5 beautiful, creative and cherished children that truly love their Dad.

He later married the love of his life and eternal companion, Annette, who shared his passion for camping in their renovated vintage trailer, relaxing in their rebuilt HydroSwift boat, roaming in the refurbished rhino four wheeler and working on their remodeled log home.

His heart is devoted to his kids: Jaxson (Emery-Anna), Austin (Kieyera), Carter, Dallas, Harley, Danielle Martin (Nick) and Brandon Soelberg (Rachel).

And his grandchildren: Grace, Ruby, Lillie, Calihan, Ella, Dawson and Truman.

Nieces, nephews and his grandkids love Uncle/Grandpa Dean. He got down on the floor and loved to play. He delighted in taking the time to make sure the kids knew him and had fun with him. Silly quips, Sponge Bob quotes and Nacho Libre were some of his favorite topics.

Dean flourished in his role as Director of Engineering for ABC 4 Utah after returning home from many years of engineering work across the country. He was a mentor, problem-solver, leader and innovator earning the respect and adoration of his colleagues and work family for the last 10 years. The family greatly appreciates what ABC 4 said in a beautiful tribute “it is not an exaggeration to say that Dean has literally kept ABC4 on the air during his 10 amazing years.”

He loved Dad jokes, corny puns and catchy jingles. Many of which were included in his singing. He was at his finest when using lyrics to deliver his “punny” messages and singing Valentines. He sang with North Front Sound singing group and Lighten Up “the best quartet ever” since 2014. His performances included community events and singing the National Anthem with his quartet for the Oakridge Boys Concert last summer.

Dean loved singing so much he thought everyone else did to. So if you didn’t love to sing, disappearing was the right answer.

One of Dean’s happiest places is Lake Powell, where he spent summer vacations with his family during his childhood and returned every year to share the experience and keep the tradition going for his family for many years to come.

Dean was the sort of man who liked working on projects. Remodeling, rebuilding, refurbishing and resurrecting were among his many talents. He kept his garage overstocked with tools, nuts, bolts and “necessary” supplies for each one. He was so determined to get his project boat working that we were all surprised he didn’t go down with the ship.

He liked casual elegance and had a flair for boots. He frequently wore a suit while sporting his ever-popular work boots. His U of U attire and camping hat maintain a regular rotation in his closet.

Dean had a tender heart for spiritual things. Because of his deep love for Christ, he served an LDS mission in Lubbock, TX. He continued his devotion as a faithful Priesthood holder and enjoyed the callings he served in throughout the years. He relished the opportunity to camp with the youth, teaching, leading and including everyone.

If Dean were here and had the opportunity to address each of you, he would want to thank you for your
friendship, love and kindness.

He would express his appreciation for the impact and influence you had on him and his family. He would emotionally, through his tears, express his love for you, his friends and family, for the joy and love each of you have brought into his life.

A celebration of Dean’s life and legacy will be held Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Burton Ward Chapel, 270 W. Burton Lane, Kaysville, Utah. Friends may visit with family Wednesday, April 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 No. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah, and Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 at the church prior to the service.