Dean Que Gledhill

Dean Que Gledhill, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, at his home in Washington, Utah, surrounded by loved ones. He was 74.

Born in Hayden, Colorado, on June 28, 1951, and raised in the wide-open country he adored so much Escalante, Utah. Growing up alongside his siblings & cousins, enjoying rowdy times with crazy adventures and trying not to get into too much trouble; led him to his passion of playing music.

In high school, Dean was active with basketball as well as baseball, but playing in a band with his cousins called the Blah’s, gave him enjoyment of filling dance halls with laughter and song. This seemed to catch the eye of a small town girl from Texas, whom Dean made sure to not let slip away.

Marrying Janis Kay Hill on June 7, 1970, in Escalante, Utah. Where they began a life together and started a beautiful family. Becoming a proud father to Chrissie, Gary, and Rachelle; Dean worked tirelessly to provide for his family. Giving them a life of fun and heartfelt memories, but nothing brought him greater joy than becoming “Grandpa.” He poured his heart into his grandkids, showing them the same love for the outdoors, music, and family that defined his own life. Whether he was singing along to George Strait, or watching a rodeo with a Bud Light in hand; his love for his family was the center of everything.

His years on construction sites and oil rigs took him far from home, but his heart always remained in Escalante. Eventually, he returned home for good, serving the community through his work with the county roads — ensuring the same backroads he once roamed on were well kept for others to travel. In later years, Dean added “Realtor” to his list of titles, proudly showing others the land and beauty of Escalante he cherished so deeply.

Those who knew him best, remember Deano as hard working man, who always knew how to lend a helping hand. Whether out on the desert grading roads or while on vacation at Lake Powell, sporting his shorts, boots, and a cowboy hat — the kind of man who could have a good time anywhere, enjoying a cold drink while cruising Main, and telling stories that made everyone feel at home.

Dean leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and hard work — one that will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know him. In true Deano fashion, “I ain’t here for a long time, I’m here for a good time.”- George Straight

He is survived by his wife Janis Gledhill, his three children Chrissie(David) Owen, Gary(Jodi) Gledhill, and Rachelle Gledhill, his grandchildren Faliesha, Quentin, Myrranda, Hadli, Tanner, Tiffanie, Bode, Kameron, Alyvia, Averi, Ashlynn, Brylee, and his 12 great grandchildren, as well as his brother Darrell Alvey. He was preceded in death by his Father Que Gledhill, his mother Melba Griffin, and his sister MaeVonne Taylor.

Graveside services will be held at Escalante Cemetery at 11am on Saturday, October 11, 2025. A Celebration of Life will follow later at the Historic Escalante Show House. Friends are welcomed and encouraged to share stories, music, and good memories. The family asks that attire is semi-casual and preferably no black.