Dean C. Pappas passed away quietly on August 21st, 2026 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, CO. Born June 28th, 1944 to Demosthenes and Penelope Pappas in Denver, CO. He relished being a native of Colorado and had a deep love for his home state. Dean had an infectious enthusiasm for everything he did. He found peace in helping others and tenderly cared for his aging parents for more than seven years until they both passed. After serving in the United States Army for three years as a young man, Dean’s lust for experience and beauty would flourish into a life of joy and meaning. He was a prolific artist. Earning a masters degree in Art and living in the Los Angeles area for much of his adult life. Dean painted hundreds of works in a variety of styles. He maintained a pottery studio and worked on ceramics and sculpture. Dean also worked as an architectural photographer for years. Later, he devoted his craft to the public as an Art Therapist, helping many people heal through artistic expression. He loved to instigate mad-cap adventures with friends and family, something like a spontaneous cross-country ski trip both up and down Copper Mountain, a feat conquered through sheer luck and a winning attitude. Dean had a strong connection with nature. Even after contracting Parkinson’s, he continued to explore the natural world. He did not let anything affect his zest for life. He emitted a fierce love for his culture and roots in Greece. Immersing himself in memoirs of the old country through frequent visits with adventure in mind. Dean carried the old world with him from the shores of the Pacific to the top of Mount Olympus. Dean is survived by his sister, Katherine Piffer, his brother E.J. Pappas, his 4 nieces and nephews, Matthew and Maryellen Piffer, Niko Pappas, Brittany Fitzgerald, and his grand niece and nephew Collins and Zeb Piffer."

Memorial contributions can be made in Dean's eternal memory to the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC). Please follow the link and directions listed below. ICCO Donation Link In the "dedicate my donation" box, enter the name Dean Pappas, CO, so that funds will be directed to the children's services in Greece.