Dean Kirk Honsberger

Dean Kirk Honsberger of Plainwell, Michigan, passed away on September 17, 2024, at the age of 77. Dean was born in Jackson, Michigan, on December 30, 1946, to the late Garnet “Kirk” and Grace Honsberger.

Dean grew up in Jackson, Michigan, right across from Loomis Park and enjoyed swimming, playing in the marching band and time at the family cottage at Clark Lake, Michigan.

Dean graduated from Jackson High, received his associate’s degree from Jackson Community College, his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University (WMU), and he went on to achieve a master’s degree from WMU. Dean worked at Western his whole career; first as a Budget Officer, then as the Director of Budget and Planning, and ending his 45-year career as the Associate Vice President of Budget and Planning in 2015. He was a true Bronco fan.

Dean married Jan Honsberger while he was finishing up college and she was working as a teacher. They were married for 27 years. While together, they welcomed two daughters, Sheryl and Christy.

Dean loved music and played in a 70’s local band called “The Moonlighters.” He sang and played the coronet by ear, loved to harmonize, and listen to live music. Music brought so much joy to his life.

Dean loved and looked out for his neighbors wherever he lived, but he especially cherished the friendships and the tight knit community he made while living at Pine Lake. Whether it was enjoying a cup of coffee, grabbing a bite to eat together, or having a drink together, he considered his friends part of his family.

Dean loved his two girls, his three grandchildren, his time with girlfriend, Lunny, and his time at the lake and at her farm. He even became known as the “Sunset Guy” as he would post his nightly pictures to the Pine Lake Yelpers Facebook page.

Dean is survived by his girlfriend, Lunny Green; children, Sheryl (Steve) Cramer and Christy (Chris Carew) Honsberger; grandchildren, Oscar Cramer, Kai Carew, and Lucia Carew.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Joyce Seward.

Memorial contributions may be made in Deans’ honor to Make a Wish Michigan. To leave an online condolence, visit https://www.langelands.com.