Dean Michael Flaig

Dean Michael Flaig, age 72 passed away peacefully on the morning of Oct. 7 from complications of Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease. Dean is survived by his wife of 9 years, Jamie Templin Flaig, his sister Diane Flaig, brother Dave Flaig and several nieces and nephews, as well as 2 stepsons and several step-grandchildren. Dean, whos’ passions in life included music (guitar), art (creating amazing metal mobiles), fishing and a myriad of exhilarating outdoor activities, had lived an active life surrounded by good friends…and continued to do so even well into his Alzheimer’s decline. While this disease slowly took over his mind, his body remained fit and active to the end and he still very much enjoyed social gatherings…whether it was music jams in his basement, laughing and hanging out with friends around his waterfront firepit, kayaking or anything on the water, going out to dinner and local music events or walking his beloved dog Chia…Dean was surrounded by loving and vibrant friends and family. During the last few years, Jamie took exceptional care to make sure that he was able to remain at home and continue to be part of the caring and rich community of friends, family, and neighbors, which together, they had so lovingly nurtured and participated in over the years. They were blessed that so many of those people continued to help Dean navigate life with Alzheimer’s…helping to keep him included, active and safe, while being an amazing support to Jamie. 

Jamie and Dean had met later in life and had made the most of all their years together. They were true soulmates and had loved each other with all their hearts. Their waterside home was often a hub for friends and family to gather, eat, play and relax. Whether it was taking the boat out for fishing or tubing excursions, making and shooting potato guns or other silly endeavors, playing board games, jamming and singing with their friends on their guitars, or relaxing around the firepit with good food, drink and music…you were sure to find a rich mix of folks of all ages and walks of life. 

Dean will be deeply missed by many. In honor of his valiant fight against this challenging disease, Jamie requests that you consider donating to The Alzheimer’s Association (which can be found at act.alz.org). She also asks that if you know anyone who is caring for a loved one suffering from this disease (or something similar)…whether it be their spouse, parent or sibling…that you consider offering a helping hand in any way that you can. Perhaps that would be a few hours of respite for the caregiver by overseeing the loved one, or by delivering a hot meal, or offering an invitation to join in an event which could include both of them…anything to give the caregiver some time, nurturing or attention because they are overwhelmed most of the time with a very demanding, stressful, heartbreaking and more than full time job. And there but for the grace of God go any of us. 

There will be a life celebration for Dean with good food and great music coming up in the near future. Once it is planned Jamie will share with friends and family the date and venue and look forward to having you join her to honor the gentle, devoted, kind, fun-loving, creative and special man that was Dean Flaig. 

Condolences can be sent to: Jamie Flaig 1016 Brighton Drive Menasha, WI 54952