Big Stone Gap, Va.-Dean Bieber passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at home in the arms of his beloved wife. He is dwelling with God above and is resting with the angels who surround him now with love. He may seem far away, but he will never truly part. A part of Dean will forever live in our hearts.
Dean was born February 14, 1936 in South Bend, Indiana to Elizabeth and Elmer Bieber. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Marilyn Shearman and Jane Thompson; two brothers, Ray and Myron Bieber. Dean leaves behind three children, Larry, Cinthia and Cheryl.
Dean’s parents moved to Miami, Florida to escape the cold and snow. He graduated from Miami Jackson High School. After high school, Dean served in the U. S. Naval Reserves on active duty and trained in aviation electronics and was discharged in 1962. After leaving the Navy, he moved to San Jose, California to be with his brother. Dean attended San Jose College, graduating in 1965 with a degree in electrical engineering. He worked at Lockheed Missiles and Space Division for several years, writing test procedures used for missile components on the Polaris Missile. While working there, he received several commendation letters for his exceptional performance. Due to government cut backs in funding at Lockheed, Dean moved to Chicago, Illinois as Midwest Service Manager for Royco Instruments until 1978.
Dean married the love of his life, Margaret Gilly. Margaret’s mother wanted us to move back to the Gilly farm in Lee County. Dean started Bieber’s Construction and attended classes at Mountain Empire Community College, taking courses in plumbing, electrical and HVAC. After taking exams in Roanoke, he received a Class A contractor’s license from the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Dean and Margaret attended Wise Lutheran Church. After meeting Ronnie Mutter, they joined Trinity United Methodist Church in Big Stone Gap. They worked at both churches using their construction talents.
A special thank you to Ashley, Taylor, Stephanie and Ollie.
Dean’s wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at a future date.
Memorial Contributions may be made to: Trinity United Methodist Church, 203 E. 1st Street, S., Big Stone Gap, Va. 24219 or to the Heritage Church of God, 775 Wood Ave., E., Big Stone Gap, Va. 24219.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Bieber family.