Dean Wayne Blize

“A father is neither an anchor to hold us back nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way.”

Dean Wayne Blize, 82, passed away on June 29, 2023, at Providence St. Mary Medical Center, surrounded by family.

He was born to Harold and Viola Blize, on July 31, 1940, in Davenport, WA. The family later moved to Walla Walla, where Dean attended local area schools before graduating from Walla Walla High School in 1958. From there, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Washington State College.

On December 22, 1962, Dean married Nancy Dale Frank, and together had three children: Peggy Dale, Jeffrey Wayne, and Kristie Ann. While Nancy was known as a force of nature, Dean was the quiet pillar of strength, which his family could always depend on.

After college, Dean briefly worked for Sherwood and Roberts before partnering with Shepard Linscott and John Wylie to found Linscott, Wylie & Blize, Inc. in 1973. For over 40 years, he was a well-regarded and respected Broker who conducted business with the utmost integrity. Prior to his retirement, Dean was proudly presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Walla Walla Association of Realtors (WWAR).

Dean was also active in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and the local community, whether it was coaching youth baseball or contributing member of the Walla Walla Elks Lodge, ROTARY, Walla Walla Country Club, Y.M.C.A., or serving as President of the WWAR Board of Directors.

He was an avid golfer, bowler, racquetball player, and fisherman. He especially looked forward to annual vacations in McCall, ID, and fishing excursions with his good friend, Mike Spanish.

Dean is survived by his daughter, Peggy Needham (Mike) of Walla Walla, WA; son, Jeff Blize (Jocelyn) of Portland, OR; daughter, Kristie Waggoner of Richland, WA; brother-in-law, Lawrence Price; niece, Kathy Gerling (Dean); six grandchildren; and special friend and companion, Joanne Hinger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Viola; wife, Nancy; sister, Patricia; and nephew, Richard.

There will be a Private Family Interment.

Donations may be made to a charity of choice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder St., Walla Walla, WA  99362.