Dean L. Finkenbinder

Dean Finkenbinder, 78, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Dean was born in April 1946 in Lena, Illinois, to Raymond (Dale) and Geneva (née Biesemeier) Finkenbinder. He grew up on a dairy farm in a small town in Illinois, where he worked alongside his father before pursuing other dreams.  After graduating from high school, Dean served in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970, where he proudly served his country. Following his time in the Air Force, Dean earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Iowa, with a focus on geology and geography. He was first drawn to Wyoming after participating in a college geology field trip and fell in love with the state’s unique landscapes. 

In 1973, Dean married the love of his life, Karla Pagel. Together they had two daughters, Jessica (Finkenbinder) Peppard and Katie (Finkenbinder) Armstrong.

Dean took a job as a health inspector in Blackhawk County. This position allowed him the opportunity to continue the same work in Wyoming, working for the County and State in various towns throughout the state. While living in Casper, he earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Wyoming. Eventually, he found his way to Cheyenne to work for the State of Wyoming Department of Agriculture. He retired as Manager in 2016.

 Outside of work, Dean had many hobbies, including woodworking, where he crafted beautiful clocks and furniture, as well as gardening, in which he found great joy. He was an avid golfer and took great pride in achieving a hole-in-one on the fourth hole at Prairie View Golf Course. A devoted Green Bay Packers fan, Dean never missed an opportunity to cheer for his team. He had a deep passion for Wyoming’s geology and enjoyed exploring its diverse landscapes.

 Dean’s greatest love was spending time with his family, and he will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, quiet strength, and humor. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Julanne.

 Dean is survived by his wife, Karla; daughters, Jessica and Katie; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Jonas, and Elijah; and brothers, Kelly, Kevin, and Norman Finkenbinder.