Dean Curtis Frisky

Obituary for Dean Curtis Frisky

Dean Curtis Frisky passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Drumheller, AB, at the age of 61.

Dean will be lovingly remembered by his wife Shelley; his children, Jessica (Dave) and Matthew; and his beloved grandson William, who brought him much joy.  He is also survived by his mother, Anne, along with many extended family members and close friends. He was predeceased by his father, George.

Dean was born on May 30, 1964, in Carrot River, SK, and grew up in Gull Lake, SK. It was there that he found his love for sports, spending countless hours on the ice, ball diamond, and football field. In high school, he worked side-by-side with his mom at the local Co-op, where he discovered not only a strong work ethic, but also the foundation for what would become a long and meaningful career in retail.

After graduation, Dean moved to Saskatoon to earn his business diploma, and that’s where he met Shelley. The two started building a life together in Rosetown, where Dean worked for the Co-op and continued playing the sports he loved. Dean and Shelley were married on September 3, 1988 in Saskatoon, beginning a life together filled with laughter and love.

In the early years of marriage, Dean and Shelley moved to several towns across Saskatchewan, following Dean’s career with the Co-op. They welcomed Jessica in July 1992, and Matthew in November 1994, completing their family. Some of the family’s most treasured memories were made during summer trips to the mountains, and especially to BC, where Dean played in the ABC Lutheran ball tournament. After the kids grew up and left home, Dean and Shelley kept exploring together, and Canmore and Tofino became special places they returned to often.

Eventually, the family made their home in Alberta, living in both Stettler and Drumheller before settling permanently in Drumheller. In 2004 Dean began a new and fulfilling chapter as the Gift Shop Manager at the Royal Tyrrell Museum.  He truly loved his work, and his team loved him back. He was admired for his dedication, support, humour, and the positive impact he had on those around him.

A passionate sports fan and athlete, Dean’s love for the Saskatchewan Roughriders sparked many light-hearted rivalries with friends who supported opposing teams. Dean also had a special love for fishing and could spend hours with a fishing rod in his hand, whether he was catching anything or not. He had a quick wit, a big heart, and a genuine love for connecting with people. He especially enjoyed volunteering with the Badlands Amphitheatre and the Passion Play, where he always found someone to chat with, laugh with, or lend a hand to.

Dean will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of Dean’s life will take place on Monday, July 21, at 2:00 p.m. at the Badlands Community Facility in Drumheller, AB, with a luncheon to follow. Everyone who knew and loved Dean is welcome to attend and help honour his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada (https://www.braintumour.ca/giving/) or the Drumheller and District Humane Society (https://www.drumhellerhumane.com/index.php/donate-now).

The Frisky family would like to thank everyone who walked alongside Dean during his journey, especially the healthcare teams who provided such compassionate care and support.