Obituary of Richard Dean Gahagen

Richard Dean Gahagen (December 16th, 1989 – June 9th, 2015) On the 16th of December of the year 1989, the second son of Deborah Denny Gahagen and Robert Dale Gahagen Jr, Richard Dean Gahagen, was born in Lisbon, Portugal. Dean has two brothers and a half-sister and he was the middle child of three Gahagen boys from his birth parents. He has lived in three countries throughout his life; including his birthplace along with Argentina and the United States. The majority of his time was spent in South Carolina and so was the majority of his growth into the amazing person he was. His scholastic career was highlighted with his graduation from A.C Flora High School in 2008 along with his time spent at Winthrop University and Midlands Technical College. Dean had many passions in his life including music (clarinet and bass guitar), forensic science, video games, his family and friends and most of all his passion for Jesus Christ. To the unaware Dean’s life seems to be normal, but to those who know him we know of his strength through his journey was immense. Within his first year he suffered from pneumonia that in turn was just the beginning of an incredibly long medical history. Battling immune system issues through his early years he began to realize that he was indeed “different” than the other kids his age. His further medical complications really started after his graduation of high school in 2008. As the years continued and having to accept that his opportunities were limited to how he could further his education or to what he desired to become Dean always found a way to continue to be positive. Even though some days were harder than others he knew that he had to give his life in God’s hand and that he did indeed do. In 2015 after fighting multiple organ failures, Dean Gahagen left his earthly vessel and joined God and all of his angels at 9:26pm EST June 9th. Throughout his life of 25 years he has been a man of strength, courage, wisdom and one of the most powerful smiles that has graced this earth. Along with being a master of witty humor, Dean has touched many people with his soul and heart. He was loved by his family and friends and he did more loving than he received. His heart never gave up all the way to end of his incredible journey and will always be remembered as one of the greatest friend, brother, son and follower of God’s word. Rest in peace to you Dean. You finally get those wings even though you were already an angel.