Dean Philippy, 81, Cathedral City, Calif., died in his home under hospice care, on September 6, 2023, after battling cancer. Before passing he was surrounded by those he loved. He enjoyed cracking jokes, was quick witted and had a infectious smile. He would talk to most anyone, anywhere, making many life-long friends. He was passionate about singing and loved karaoke. During his Celebration of Life, “My Way,” was sung in his voice via video, along with, “Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me”, an adopted love song between Dean and his partner, Mae. He said if he had a do over, he would have pursued a career in singing. His passion led him to sing at numerous Senior Living Facilities, where he would collect hugs and song requests from residents. In one instance a resident requested one, which gave Dean great joy and surprised staff.  This woman had not spoken in 6 months. 

Dean was born May 18, 1942, in Minneapolis, Minn., where he was active in sports, especially basketball, graduating from North High School in 1960. He served in the Army, stationed in California, from 1964 to 1970. Once in California, he never again lived where there was snow. He said he had shoveled enough snow in his youth. Dean had an entrepreneurial spirit. His jobs included sales, real estate, professional bowling, Sears, Raising Canes, and Lyft, where he could sing and bring a smile to many of his riders.  When semi-retired, he took singing lessons, aspiring to a 4th place win in the Coachella Valley Southern Calif. Regional Competition, for which he got great satisfaction.  During his final weeks of hospice, he would enthusiastically invite all who visited to view his competition videos.

He is survived by his partner Mae Cox, Cathedral City, Calif.; 3 brothers: Don (Linda) Philippy, Bloomington, Minn.; Barry (Jene) Philippy, Vermillion, Ohio; Carl (Shanan Raymond) Philippy, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; a sister, Jean (Harvey) Weiss, Hugo, Minn.; a grandson, Joseph Andrews-Philippy, Victorville, Calif.,  a granddaughter Jessica (Alex) Reyes, San Jose, Calif., and 4 grandchildren: Mason, Leo, Ayla, and Zoey (due in December).

Preceding him in death was his daughter Kathleen Karen Philippy, his parents Harold C. Philippy and Merelyn A. Griffith.

Celebration of Life was held by close family and karaoke friends on September 10, 2023, at Macario’s Grill, Indio, Calif. Memorial services will be held by family at a future date. He will be interred at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Cathedral City, Calif. 

Arrangements were made by Tulip Cremation, Lake Elsinore, Calif.