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Dean Joseph Cypher, born on April 21, 1953, in Moose Lake, MN, to William and Lorraine (Peterson) Cypher, spent his early years in various towns, including Moose Lake, MN, Doland, Clark, and Watertown, SD, and Verndale, MN, where he graduated from Verndale High School in 1971. A proud defensive tackle on his high school football team. He served his country in the US Army before returning home in February 1972. He would met Brenda Frounfelter at a party—a moment that would spark a lifelong partnership. They married on September 30, 1972, beginning a journey of love and shared memories. Dean began his career at J & J Feeds in Wadena and later pursued a fulfilling 15-year tenure as a driver for Roadway Trucking in Eagan, transferring to Fargo, ultimately settling in rural Barnesville in 1986.
In 1992, Dean was elected President of the Teamsters Union, a role he held until 2010. His leadership saw him engaging with people nationwide and serving on the ethics panel. Dean represented the Teamsters in cities such as Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Chicago, and Minneapolis, leaving a lasting impact on his community and all those who labor.
Passionate about the outdoors, Dean enjoyed hunting and fishing adventures, particularly in Canada. His love for yellow labs and his skills in the kitchen were well-known. Family was central to Dean's life, and he cherished spending time with his grandchildren, taking them on fishing trips, explorations, and adventures to buy fireworks. A fond player of pinochle, cribbage, and poker, Dean found joy in games with family and friends.
Remembered for his dedication and genuine spirit, Dean's legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched.
Dean is survived by his wife Brenda Cypher of Barnesville, MN; two daughters: Bonnie (Brett) Jenson of Hawley, MN, and Tammy (Scott) Brehm of Waubun, MN; six grandchildren: Bishop, Benjamin, and Broden Jenson, Faith, Maverick, and Taya Brehm; one great granddaughter Zara Jenson; three siblings: William (Carol) Cypher, Lydia (Bruce) Johnson, and Laura (Tom) Madson; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Dean was preceded in death by his parents William and Lorraine Cypher.
Dean Cypher, age 73, of Barnesville, MN passed away at his home in rural Barnesville, MN on Monday, July 6, 2026.
Visitation will be from 6-8 PM, Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at St. James United Church of Christ with a Prayer Service at 7:30 PM. Visitation will continue from 10-11 am with a Memorial Service beginning at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at St. James United Church of Christ with Rev. Jim Wilson presiding. Burial will follow in Rosemound Cemetery, Barneaville with military honors being provided by the Minnesota Army National Guard and the Barnesville American Legion and VFW Honor Guard.
Online memories and condolences may be share at www.KorsmoFuneralService.com
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
6:00 - 8:00 pm (Central time)
St James United Church
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
7:30 - 8:30 pm (Central time)
St James United Church
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)
St James United Church
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
11:00 am - 12:00 pm (Central time)
St James United Church
Visits: 1973
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