Dean McKiel

Dean McKiel, 72, of North Attleboro, formerly of Somerville, MA, passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, while ill in the hospital.

Born in Somerville, MA he was the son of the late Ralph McKiel and the late Ruth (Publicover) McKiel.

Dean proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and was part of NATO.

He worked for many years as a machinist before later transitioning to landscaping.

A talented handyman, Dean took great pride in renovating and landscaping his home over the years.

Dean enjoyed fishing, vacationing on Cape Cod, and visiting the beach. He had a lifelong love of music and playing the guitar, which enjoyed sharing with his stepson, Jason.

Dean was predeceased by his wife of more than 20 years, Kathleen McKiel; Marie Simoneau, cousin to Kathleen, for whom he was the primary caregiver for many years; his brother Ralph "Mike" D. McKiel, Jr; and by his loving partner and companion, Kathleen Ferrara, whom he met later in life.

He leaves behind the children of Kathleen McKiel, whom he raised alongside her: Sandra Fuller Jack of Eagle, Idaho; David G. Fuller Jr. of Hokes Bluff, Alabama; Steven R. McKiel of Amsterdam, and Jason A. Fuller of Cumberland, RI, and all their children who called him their beloved "Papa".

Surviving in addition is his sister-in-law: Wendy M. McKiel, nieces: Heather McKiel and Debra Mendes, and nephew: Erik McKiel as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews: Gabriel Terry, Noah Terry, Kaitlyn Mendes, Brianna McKiel, and Harper McKiel.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the teams at University Orthopedics and Life Care of Raynham for the compassion and care Dean received throughout this past year.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 10:00 am in St. Mary's Cemetery, North Attleboro, MA. Relatives and friends will be invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Toys for Tots.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit an online guest book at www.dyer-lake funeral home.com

The Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro, MA is assisting the family with arrangements.