Branson mourns loss of member of musical family

Branson has lost a musical great and the patriarch of one of Branson's talented families. Dean Dutton passed away on Good Friday, April 3, at the age of 87.

Dean and his bride of 57 years, Sheila, loved spending time together, as well as with their children and grandchildren. The couple shared 14 children, 32 grandchildren, and one great grandchild, born in January.

Dean Dutton

Dean spent the first 25 years of his adult life teaching. After retiring from the education field, Dean took on a new role – professional musician and CFO for The Duttons. The show, featuring three generations of Duttons, has become one of the most popular family shows in Branson.  

When news of Dean's passing spread, many offered their condolences to the Dutton family and shared their thoughts on Dean Dutton. Some spoke of his musical talent, but most mentioned his love for his family and his strong faith.

Said SueAnn O'Neal Clark, "What a sweet man. I enjoyed visiting with him on several occasions. May the Lord bless you and comfort you."

Donna Blackwood said, "Praying for you and your family as I know he will be missed. But anyone who knew Dean knows he loved his Lord and now he is there on that heavenly shore, rejoicing. We love you all, and we thank the Lord that we had the honor to work and pray with Dean and your family."

The Haygoods noted, "What an incredible man. God bless you guys."

Said Jim Barber, "So sad to hear this and our sincere condolences and prayers go out to the entire family. I was honored to know your amazing father."

Said Curtis Knudsen, "So sorry to hear of Dean's passing. He articulated the doctrine of Christ better than anyone I've ever heard. There was never any doubt where he stood with the Lord. I will miss him."

Tony Melendez noted, "God rest his soul. Our prayers will be with him and the family."

Denny Yeary shared, "Just a fabulous, great man. Will be a hole never filled. He was good to me."

Molly Donohue added, "Such sorrow on earth. Such joy in heaven. My heartfelt condolences."

"Sending love and condolences to the entire family," said Lori McDowell Zuckerman.

Rebecca Lawson noted, "I thoroughly enjoyed every time I had the opportunity to speak with Dean. He was such a warm, caring soul who truly loved his family and performing. He will be greatly missed in the community. I know there was a great welcoming party in heaven for him. God bless each of you and keep you, comforting you and providing peace as you move through this difficult time."

"I am so sorry to hear this. I have loved bringing groups to see all of you for many years, and loved watching this wonderful man's love for his family come through and his love for the Lord. Praying for all of you," said Chris Vroman.

Kristy McConnell said, "Prayers for comfort and peace for your whole family. You are loved."

Said Carol Fuller, "To say he will be missed is a major understatement. A wonderful man like Dean will be remembered in this community as a legend. Sending love, hugs and prayers to the entire family."

Teina Moore Woodburn noted, "Sending thoughts and prayers to your family. He was a great man."

Rea Link said, "Dean always had a smile for everyone, such a gentleman. He will be missed. Prayers for this entire family as they adjust to this loss."

Mike Woody said, "Wonderful man and showman. Thank you, Dean, for your support of Branson live entertainment."

Kyle Knudsen said, simply, "He is a legend. We all feel this one."

A memorial for Dean Dutton was held Tuesday in Branson. A second memorial is slated for Saturday, April 11, in Hurricane, Utah.