Dean Juarez

Dean Juarez was born on October 1st 1956 In Tacoma WA to parents Yvonne Choate and Gabriel Juarez. A proud member of the Blackfeet Tribe. He grew up in Tacoma and went to Rogers elementary, Gault Jr. High, Lincoln HS, and Fort Steilacoom College for art classes. He was a natural creative since early childhood and had the ability to turn his energy into beautiful art. He liked to sculpt, paint landscapes, animals and people as well as create native art. He could precisely draw anything in ink, pencil or charcoal. He liked power colors and had an eye for observing the art of the world and the layers of how it was put together. During his time at Gault Jr. High he had the best time of his life playing jv and varsity football. He played running back, tight end and wide receiver positions. He had a lifelong passion for the game of football, and also ran track. An all around athlete. He loved music and kept an ear out for new artists. During his teenage years and early twenties he had the chance to experience one of the greatest eras of music: the sub-genres of progressive rock and glam rock) - the two main artists being David Bowie and T. rex. Bowie being a major inspiration to the early 80’s sound of new wave music (synth type music) Besides music and art Dean loved the beauty of nature and wildlife and spent a lot of time outside playing as a boy in Tacoma where he’d catch frogs, reptiles and insects. When he lived in Texas he would see armadillos, road runners, horned lizards, skinks along with other creatures not found in WA. He was even able to put a leash on a praying mantis to keep as a pet for a while. He could name any bird by sight or by hearing their call, and especially loved robins. During his time spent in the US Army he tested in the 95% percentile for physical fitness and was an adept with the M-16 rifle hitting his target mark over 98% of the time. He took down an elk and a small deer with his compound bow during his time spent near Toleak Point, WA in 1979. He was an avid reader of military history (WW2). He loved playing chess with his son, and going for drives with his daughter. He was a jokester and always had something to say to make you laugh or would find something to jokingly tease you about. He was spiritual and kept track of the planets and constellations in the sky and knew what stage the moon was at and when it was full. He was interested in the topic of ghosts, ufo’s, Bigfoot, and other cryptids. He liked watching Fox News, and Judge Judy. One of his favorite meals was a good quality tuna sandwich with lettuce and a pickle on the side, classic lays potato chips and a coke. And finally he held a very special place in his heart for his Grandma Irene and loved her dearly. We hope he is with her right now.