Dean Garlock Elias

Born on September 7, 1934, in Seattle, WA, he was the son of Joe and Josephine Elias.

While living on Mercer Island, Dean attended Seattle’s Garfield HS, a multi-racial melting pot that was instrumental in forming his views on civil and equal rights. He was the student body president, quarterback and captain of the football team.

Dean's educational journey was remarkable. He attended prestigious institutions including Cornell University, Harvard University, Union Theological Seminary, and Columbia University.

His early career involved working for the Forest Service, later designing the training program for Head Start. He then created and ran Northwest Social Systems which among other things worked with Native American tribes in creating sustainable farmed salmon.

His dedication to higher education spanned an impressive 50 years, during which he served numerous institutions, notably Antioch College in Seattle, Goddard College, Antioch University in San Francisco, the California Institute of Integral Studies, and St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California.

A loving father and grandfather, Dean is survived by his children, Kirk Elias (Nadine) of Reno, NV, Beth Riste (Dan) of Merrill, WI, Erik (Robin) of Santa Cruz, CA, and Uma Dobia of Olinda, Australia, his grandsons, Collin Riste, Kyle Riste, and Jack Elias, and his great-grandsons, Joshua Riste, Connor Riste. He is also survived by his sister, Pamela Widman of Portland, OR, and nephew Rick Widman.

Dean Elias will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to justice and education. Known for his warm spirit and great sense of humor, Dean had a love of poetry, jazz and puns. He had a profound impact on the lives of those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and family that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Bountiful thanks for the exceptional care provided by Westwind Memory Care and Hospice of Santa Cruz County.

A celebration of life will take place in middle May in Walnut Creek, CA. Details will be posted here.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dean’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, or to Mount Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church by clicking on the links below.