Dean A. Willenborg, 67 of Montrose, passed away Thursday, June 18, 2026.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, June 26, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Lillyville, with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday at Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham. Memorial donations may be made to an automotive scholarship fund in Dean’s memory.

Dean was born September 23, 1958 in Effingham, the son of Reuben and Linda (Apke) Willenborg. He married Debra Kay Wright on September 28th, 2001. Dean was a man who could fix just about anything with an engine and was happiest with grease on his hands and family by his side. A skilled mechanic with a lifelong passion for cars, Dean was always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, or help a friend in need. He treasured the time he spent with his family and valued the many friendships he built throughout his life. Dean will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, generous heart, quick smile, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his wife, Deb; sons, Cody (Payton) Willenborg and Kyle (Bailey) Willenborg; step-children, Thad (Jenny) Myers, Chad (Sarah) Myers and Amanda (Wes) Horton; grandchildren, Kohen, Blakelee, Brynlee, and Cooper Willenborg, Faith (fiancé, Austin) Horton, Seth Horton, Elijah, Carissa, and Caitlyn Myers; siblings, Donna (Ted) Westjohn, Rick (LoriAnn) Willenborg, Cheryl (Mark) Krueger, Kristy (Don) Wendt, Jeanie (Scott) Summers, Lori (Scott) Long, Brad (Kathy) Willenborg, Jodi (Mike) Krampe, Kari (Jack) Bierman, and Beth (Chris) Skaggs.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Phil Walk; and nephew, Troy Westjohn.