We don't think Dean would have wanted an obituary, so let this be a brief biography with unfortunate placement. Dean LaGrow was born April 22nd, 1967 and left this world on April 4th, 2020 of what we can assume was a worn-out, much-used heart. Although, we are not really sure. We just know he was amazing and can't seem to find another reason why.
Dean grew up in a loving home as the eldest child to Dane and Janet LaGrow. He had an annoying younger brother, 2 years younger, Doug, and an annoying but lovable sister, Lisa. As the oldest, he took his role of prime troublemaker seriously with his daredevil antics, omelet making escapades, and game-playing thievery. These endless shenanigans brought broken bones, Evel Knievel loving theatrics and Batman style heroism to his happy childhood. This paved the way for this guy to always have a story and zing for life.
Dean graduated from Waterford High School in 1985 and went on to party his way through a few universities before landing at UW Milwaukee, where he earned a degree in Graphic Design. This over-priced piece of paper opened doors for him to pursue his true passion which was helping people. He did this in countless ways and over the last few had joined the Exit Realty family with joy and renewed energy. He found countless people their dream home or next great investment! Dean fit this so well because of his easy-going personality. Throughout his work escapades, the love of his life, Lori LaGrow stood by his side with support and encouragement. She was his everything and soul mate. Married for 20 years, their adventures together included travel with dear friends, a vow renewal presided by Elvis, many concerts, foodie outings, and community outings. They were inseparable and had many events over the years with a wealth of friends. Lori worked the kitchen as Dean worked the crowd. Dean's friends know him as kind, generous and fun. He treated his friends as family, as many joined for holidays, games and hanging out on the people cooker. The people cooker was home to many fun afternoons and evenings, not actually a cooker of people- remember he was a really nice guy; it's just actually a backyard deck in a sunny spot around all of Dean's plants!
Many friends are from his connections to his community that he loved so much, Bay View; and worked diligently to improve. His neighbors will know him for his penguins which adorned their yard in masses at Christmas and the trick or treat fiascoes at Halloween. Always a fun time was had at Club LaGrow. Which was easy to do, as Dean had the gift of chit-chat, an amazing laugh, and contagious smile. A dog-whisperer to all dogs who visited, but a cat lover and owner to 3 special cats in which he doted on. He adored his family and had a very special place in his heart for his nieces- dubbed as the fun Uncle, he picked out thoughtful gifts- sometimes extravagant. He would become the biggest kid, with epic water fights, secret handshakes, and game-playing fun.
Dean left behind his wife, Lori LaGrow; Dad, Dane LaGrow; Brother Doug LaGrow; Sister Lisa and brother-in-law Steve Masslich; nieces, Gwynne, Ava and Charli; Mother in Law Shirley Johnson; Father in law Keith Generotzke (Cheryl); brother in law Todd Generotzke; and many, many friends and relatives. He is chilling above with his Mom, Janet LaGrow and too many friends and family that left us all too soon.
So, funeral services probably won't be allowed in any reputable house of worship. Instead, when the world's chaos calms down we will celebrate the life of Dean with a Chicago-style hot-dog in one hand and a cocktail in the other in punk rock style. At this time we ask for no flowers or gifts, thank you.
Prasser-Kleczka Funeral Homes
Bay View Chapel
414-483-2322