Dean Byron Chase, 74, passed away suddenly on May 20, 2026, at the home he loved on Lake Groton.

Born in Woodsville on January 10, 1952, Dean was the son of Ralph and Jean (Washburn) Chase.

As the fourth of five children — and the only boy — he grew from little brother to much more of a big brother in ways that he cared for his four sisters from an early age. This spirit of devotion and care for others became a guiding force that defined his entire life.

It would be impossible to define Dean by a single career or profession, as he was uniquely talented and capable of mastering anything he set his mind to.

Over his lifetime, he worked as an electrician, a plumber, a department store owner, and the founder of a successful flooring business.

Later in his career, he played a pivotal role in establishing The Flooring Network, consulting for NRF Distributors, and designing layouts and displays for new retail stores.

He was also a race car driver, a coach, and a talented chef. An exceptionally handy man, Dean was a master mechanic, builder, and decorator who could fix, create, or improve anything.

Dean lived life to the absolute fullest and possessed a wide range of passions. He enjoyed playing softball, snowmobiling, taking cross-country motorcycle trips, and camping.

He loved hunting and cherished time spent at a family camp in Vershire, Vermont, and his own hunting property in Ohio.

Above all else, Dean was happiest on the water with a fishing rod in his hand. He and Debbie also loved escaping the cold to spend their winters in Myrtle Beach, where they cherished time spent with their close-knit and ever-growing winter family.

Known for being a creative force, together Dean and Debbie redesigned, remodeled — and even designed and built from the ground up — numerous homes that left their friends and family in awe. Even a designer home magazine featured their log home as the cover story.

They were known as a force in motion, always taking on the next project with laser-like vision and planning to match.

Their combined energies were also notorious in throwing parties, hosting family and friend galas with various themes and costumes in decked-out locations. From holiday beach parties with colorful outfits and fancy beverages, to St. Patrick’s Day bashes with all the proper fixings, to bridal and baby showers, and finally, family weddings that left guests speechless with the décor, floor design, outdoor settings and, of course, all touches with glitz and glamour.

Incredibly generous with his time and talents, Dean poured his energy into uplifting his community and family.

He was a driving force behind the Bradford Youth Sports program; crafted beautifully handmade gifts for loved ones; and loved hosting dinners for family and friends. Typically as head chef for such dinners, he seemed to thrive in this role. He also spearheaded and planned family vacations as well as trips with his sisters and extended family — creating cherished traditions that have continued to bond the families.

Dean’s favorite role within the extended Chase family is his title of Park Ranger (and primary organizer, instigator, legend) for the Chase family 4th of July muti-day reunions. These gatherings are the most significant tie that binds multiple generations of his family together.

Dean’s greatest legacy is his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Chase; his three sisters: Charlotte Chase of South Burlington, Vermont; Muriel Nutting and her husband, Lester of Essex Junction, Vermont; and Terry Chase and her husband, Newt Lang of Woodsville; and his sons: Chris Chase; Danny Chase and his wife, Nicole; and Ryan Chase. He also leaves behind Debbie’s sons: Jamie Applebee and his wife, Devin; and Steven Applebee and his wife, Jennifer.

He was the proud grandfather of Amber Malik (Zain); Emily Chase (Sam Lorenzo); Ashley Chase (Lucas Muzzy); Colin Chase; Adalyn Chase; Oliver Chase; Liam Applebee; Riley Applebee; and Austin Applebee.

He is also survived by his Aunt Jo; numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved him dearly.

Dean was predeceased by his parents, as well as his sister, Janice Chandler and her husband, Jay, formerly of Richmond, Vermont.

A celebration of Dean’s life will be held on July 11, 2026, at the Chase Family Campground, located at 71 Graves Road in Fairlee. Additional details regarding the service will be made available at a later date.

Dean touched and profoundly affected the lives of countless people he came in contact with. His warmth, strength, and unwavering generosity will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.