John Dean, a former Shakey’s Pizza Parlor owner and well-known San Angelo businessman, passed away at the age of 87 on Saturday, February 22.
Born on July 20, 1937, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Dean was the youngest of four children. He received his early education at Corpus Christi Catholic School, Northeastern High School, and later attended Oklahoma University and Central Oklahoma College.
After college, Dean was presented with numerous business opportunities, including an offer to work for a fledgling company called Visa. However, he turned down the opportunity, later reflecting humorously on the decision as one of his “missed chances.” In 1968, Dean began his entrepreneurial journey in Amarillo before taking a part-time position at Shakey’s Pizza Parlor in San Angelo.
This job would significantly shape his future. In 1969, Dean was offered a partnership at the San Angelo Shakey’s location, eventually becoming the owner. Under his leadership, Shakey’s became a beloved local establishment, known for its quality food and excellent service. Dean also held leadership roles within the Shakey’s Franchise Association, being elected president and serving as a board member multiple times.
“He made eating at Shakey’s a fun experience and always made everyone feel at home,” said Patricia Fecher, who paid tribute to Dean in the obituary.
Dean was known for his work ethic, never hesitating to take on any job himself. He was also deeply committed to his employees, offering college tuition assistance and ensuring they never performed tasks he wouldn’t do himself. Former employee Darryl Pitts recalled how Dean taught him the value of hard work and integrity, calling his time at Shakey’s some of his most cherished memories.
In addition to his business success, Dean was an advocate for education. He played an instrumental role in establishing the first DARE program in San Angelo, working with San Angelo ISD and the San Angelo Police Department. He also motivated students to excel academically by rewarding them with game tokens for A’s on their report cards.
“Shakey’s gave us a place to hang out after church, and we could earn tokens by bringing in our report cards,” said Mary Kaye Able-Bartlett, recalling fond memories from her youth.
Beyond Shakey’s, Dean was a silent partner in several local businesses and started his final venture, Qwik Cash, in 1999. The business operated for 20 years before closing in 2019. Dean retired at the age of 82.
A civic-minded individual, Dean served on the San Angelo City Council, the San Angelo Symphony Board, and the San Angelo Restaurant Association. He also founded the Taste of San Angelo event in 1975. Despite his Oklahoma roots, Dean developed a deep affection for San Angelo and was dedicated to improving the community.
Dean is survived by his wife of 27 years, two children, six grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
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