Dean Taylor, 77, of Rochelle, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, June 22, 2019, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. Dean was born September 27, 1941 in Jellico, TN, the son of Preston and Lizzie (Shackelford) Taylor. He married Joan Davis on June 1, 1963 in Marengo, IL.

Dean worked at Del Monte in Rochelle for 33 years before his retirement. He spent his time gardening, woodworking, fixing things, and painting. He enjoyed his trips to Tennessee and fast cars, especially Camaros. Dean was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. He was always there to help his kids whenever they needed.

Dean is survived by his wife, Joan, of Rochelle; three children, Cherie (David) Rousseau of Somonauk, Brian (Jennifer) Taylor of Belvidere, and Kevin (Brandi) Taylor of Kings; ten grandchildren, Nathan Rousseau, Britannie Rousseau, Nicole (Cory) Ruark, Keith Taylor, Jenny (Danny) Pineda, Bryan Taylor, Andrew Taylor, Alex Taylor, Mackenzie Taylor, and Preston Taylor; numerous great-grandchildren; a brother, James (Dorothy) Taylor of Ohio; a sister, Jenina Marlow of Ohio; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Dean is preceded in death by a daughter, Debbie Taylor; an infant son, Keith Taylor; three brothers Jay, Boyce and Lee Taylor; and a sister, Betty Teague.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the healthcare personnel who cared for Dean over the last few years.

Visitation will be from 11 A.M. until 1 P.M. on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St. in Rochelle. A private family graveside service will follow at Lawnridge Cemetery in Rochelle. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Please visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.