Dean E. Conrad

Dean E. Conrad, 47, Black Hawk, died Monday, August 20, 2012 in Black Hawk. He was born September 11, 1964 to Keith and Carloe, (Corson) Conrad in Bangor, Maine. Dean graduated high school in Reeder, ND in 1982 and entered the United States Army in 1983, serving as a communication specialist in Korea. After being discharged, Dean attended Western Nebraska Community College with his father and received an A & P Diploma. While there, he also took flying instructions from his father. After graduation, Dean went to work for McDonnell Aircraft Company in Los Angeles and helped build the first C-17 prototype aircraft. He also worked with his father at Empire Airlines, West Jet FBO and most recently Dean worked for OH Cable Construction. Dean loved to tell humorous stories of his experiences in the Army and as an aircraft mechanic, he had a marvelous sense of humor and delighted in making people laugh. Dean also was like a pied piper with animals. He could mesmerize even the meanest of dogs with a gentle voice and caress. He enjoyed the hills and getting out into nature and sharing time with family and friends. Dean was a generous, kind and loving person who enriched many lives. Dean is survived by his twin brother, Daryl K. Conrad, Black Hawk, his mother, Carole Conrad, Rapid City, his father, Keith Conrad, Rapid City, his uncle, Mason Conrad, Cordell, OK, and two aunts; Myla Conrad, Bowman, ND and Judith Benson, Cincinnati, OH. He is preceded in death by his brother, Shawn Conrad and second father, James E. Erickson. Graveside services will be held at 1:30 pm, Monday, August 27, 2012 at Black Hills National Cemetery with Pastor Moe Greiner officiating with military honors by T.R.E.A., Chapter 29. Friends may gather at Edstrom & Rooks Funeral Service at Serenity Springs in Rapid City prior to leaving for the cemetery at 12:45 pm.