I first met Dean and Linda December 2019, I found them both delightful right away and can tell how much they love their dog lady Godiva. I was touched from the very beginning with the professionalism politeness and respect from both of them. They right away became friends of mine not just clients. It took me this long to share perhaps because I’m in denial of the sudden loss. I found them both hilarious to interact with as we worked on Godiva to get her looking pretty. Deans the one that told me the story how lady Godiva got her name, And with the added punch also asked if I knew how peeping Tom got his name? And then explained it to me. We had a good laugh. He was always so generous not just with money but with compliments. I looked forward to every time they came and brought lady Godiva to be groomed. I could tell he was a very patient person. I could tell how much Godiva adored him. I found it both charming and comfortable to watch how him and Linda interacted, they could joke around and tease one another but I knew there was a deep love and commitment there.
Julie Chelman
Critterville self pet wash

One of Dad's most favorite pastimes was to go and check out new places near and far from home. Iceland turned out to be the last time he was able to travel abroad. Albeit a destination that is rich in history or architecture, Iceland proved to be one of a kind. After coming across a great deal to fly directly from Minneapolis to Iceland, I called up dad and said "What do you think?" He immediately responded "let's get those tickets booked!"  Great decision, dad!

From driving through up to four different weather events in a day, descending into the depths of a lava tube, viewing awe-inspiring landscapes and of course eating some of the most amazing seafood to be found in the North Atlantic, Iceland had it all.

We took many videos of our adventures, but perhaps my most treasured part is the end where we are toasting our trip from a vacation rental nestled at the base of a volcano. Memories made to last a lifetime with a timeless guy.

From candles in the windows to garland on the staircase, and of course a spectacular tree, Dean helped inspire Linda’s visions for Christmas decorations. While Linda usually had the original idea, and Dean might grumble about it at first, he’d often head out and bring back items that would bring the ideas to life. And when it all came together his cheeks would flush with excitement.

In recent years there was an arrangement of holly berries they deconstructed to add a perfect touch to the staircase garland. There were also pre-lit branches that added height and light to the greenery, ornaments and Christmas bears that dressed up the mantel.

The open floor plan of their home meant there were light fixtures, cabinets, shelves, and corners all in need of decorating. Local shops like Provisions and the General Store helped fill the nooks as did gifts from Linda's sister Virginia as well as a delivery or two from QVC.

Dean’s favorites – Wooly snowmen from Cokato, MN – filled the window ledge in the office. Battery operated candles and lights with timers helped impart a sense of magic as the house seemed to start glowing on its own each night.

Hanging outdoor decorations in Minnesota meant getting chilly. And Dean – being a bit naughty – would use Linda as a hand warmer when the job was done.

Each Christmas, Dean, Derrick, and Lucas added to Linda’s collections of special ornaments and sleigh bells. This year Dean had already purchased his annual collectible decorations for Linda. One completed a 10-year series. That ornament was named “love.”

Neither Dean nor Linda really remembers if Dean actually said the words, "Will you marry me?" when he proposed. But both remember what he said about the engagement ring. “Someday, I hope to give you a much better one," he'd told her. 

They didn't think much about rings for a long while after that. There were boys to raise and a dental practice to establish!

Then came Lin Lu. After realizing Dean had spent more on their new puppy than on her original engagement ring, Linda dropped a hint or two reminding him of his proposal promise.

She asked, so when is someday? She asked if someday could be before her hands developed age spots. 

They started searching for rings. They spotted one in the estate jewelry section at a favorite store - Asquith's Jewelers in Waterloo - but it sold. They did some research into the value of estate jewelry vs. more modern styles. They decided they liked estate jewelry and they kept looking.

Then they found a special, unique ring. They decided to think on it. Linda stopped by to take another look and the store told Linda it had been sold! They discussed who could've purchased it and couldn't think of anyone.

When Christmas eve arrived, Linda noticed one of her gifts was the size of a ring box. She thought, mmm, maybe the ring was sold to Dean. But when she unwrapped the gift, she discovered a ring holder. In the card Dean had written, "Sorry the ring didn't work out. We'll find another special one!"

At the end of the evening, she unwrapped another present. This one, she could tell from the size of the box, was obviously a collectible Waterford plate from her wish list. But inside that box, alongside the plate, hidden in tissue paper was the ring.

Dean and the jewelry store had plotted together and planned to shock her. There were some close calls. Once the store called with a question for Dean and Linda answered the phone. But in the end, they pulled it off. Derrick and Lucas remember the Christmas and not really understanding why mom was crying!