Robert "Dean" Nethers, age 90, of Newark, Ohio passed away on May 24, 2025. Dean was born on September 17, 1934, to the late Charlie and Margaret (Rogers) Nethers, in Licking County, Ohio.

Dean grew up in Rocky Fork, Ohio. He attended Hanover-Toboso High School. Following school, he always had a strong work ethic even as a young man. He worked at the Heisey Glass Factory and collected Heisey Glass. He also worked summers on the B&O railroad in Newark and Utica; following in his Dad's footsteps working on the railroad. Dean met his best friend, Bill 'Junior' Tyree while working at Kaiser Aluminum. He also worked at McCown's orchard.

Dean retired from Rockwell International's Heath, Ohio plant after 30 years of service. At 18, he was hired on the spot and started that very evening. He was proud of the work he did; building parts for the military and contributing to the U.S. military in this way. Dean was the only employee that could repair one manufacturing machine. He went on a business trip to Michigan to select that machine's replacement.

Dean also owned and operated Dean Nethers Well Drilling. He drilled water, gas and oil wells. His nephew Gary "Hoss" Nethers worked alongside him during high school and contributed his start in the drilling business to his Uncle Dean. Upon graduation, his son, Steve Nethers, followed him into the drilling business also.

Dean lived his life with God in his heart. He was most proud of his family. He thought there was nothing in this world like having a wife and children. He lived for his family and all their gatherings and activities.

Dean enjoyed Amish Country and driving through the countryside. He was known for making applesauce and ham salad along with canning fruits & vegetables. He loved his farm; mowing on his tractor, planting trees and gardens. He also loved tinkering in his garage; fixing things only he could fix. He also enjoyed coon and deer hunting.

Dean was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ada Jean, to whom he married on October 1, 1954, 69 years together. He missed her greatly since her passing.

He is survived by children, Steve (Shelly), Sherry, Chris (Pam); grandchildren, Colton (Sarah), Dillon (CheyAnn), Josie (Rodney), Carson, Brandy, Casey; great grandchildren, Luke, Madi, Millie, Logan, Austin, Mason and one on the way; sisters Pat (Dean) Redman and Shirley Lee; sisters-in-law Martha and Linda. He is also survived by special niece Shell Stevens, who lived with Dean and Jean for a few years in early childhood; family friend Larry (Wendy) Tyree; many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents and wife, Dean was preceded in death by his brothers, Donovan and Bill, and brother-in-law Lester Lee.

The visitation will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10:00AM- 1:00PM at the Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, where his service will follow at 1:00PM with Pastor Randy Dennis officiating. Burial will take place in Rocky Fork Cemetery; followed by dinner at the Rocky Fork Church of God fellowship hall.

The family would like to give a special thanks to John Perge, Meals on Wheels delivery driver and to the Hospice of Central Ohio staff in the hospice unit at LMH.

Flowers, cards, and memorial contributions to charity are all welcome. Memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Central Ohio, 2269 Cherry Valley Rd., Newark, OH 43055 or Licking County Aging Partners, 1058 East Main Street, Newark, Ohio 43055.

Online condolences can be made at www.brucker-kishlerfuneralhome.com.