Dean Anthony Castellano of Mooresville, N.C., passed away unexpectedly on February 18, 2023. He was only 53 years old. His family and friends are devastated by his sudden passing.
Dean is survived by and deeply missed by his wife of almost 29 years, Leigh Ann; and his children, Gina, Alecia, Julia, and Dino. He will forever be cherished by his grandchild, Elaina, and he was excitedly awaiting the birth of another.
Dean was born on May 14, 1969, to Rocco and Delores Castellano. Dean grew up in Connecticut with his three brothers and sister, Rocco Castellano, Lou Castellano, Joseph Castellano, and Jen Castellano. He graduated from NHS. Dean went on to work at Carquest in Dover Plains, N.Y., where he met his wife Leigh Ann. He then went on to co-own this store with his father-in-law, Nick, and his brother-in-law, Jimmy, before moving himself and his family down to Mooresville, N.C.
Dean was incredible at anything he put his mind to. From fixing up cars, repairing and building homes, running a store, and owning and operating a NAPA business, he did it all. He loved hanging out with family and friends, barbecuing, and driving his boat on Lake Norman. Dean loved anything that had to do with being outside in the sun or hanging out in his man cave with a drink in his hand. He made friends wherever he went with his infectious personality. His family will forever remember his entertaining spirit and amusing “dad jokes.”
His hard work and dedication will carry on with those he impacted personally and professionally. His NAPA business will continue with the help of his family and those who loved him most in this industry.
There are no words to express how grateful his family is for our neighbors who immediately took action to support his wife and family when this tragedy occurred. Also, a heartfelt thank you to those who were with Dean and to all the family and friends who have reached out since.
Family and friends are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life, which will be held in the Chapel of Cavin-Cook Funeral Home in Mooresville, N.C., on Saturday, February 25, at 2 p.m. Visitation with the family will be from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Please bring a beer to cheer Dean’s life as he would’ve wanted, along with the silly, entertaining, and funny stories you have of him over the years.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Dean’s name to Levine Children’s Hospital, 1000 Blythe Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Castellano family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.