Dean Pirtle

November 21, 1923 - March 28, 2018

NEW PALESTINE – Dean Pirtle, age 94, of New Palestine, passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at Hancock Regional Hospital. He was born on November 21, 1923 in Smithville, TN as the son of John Lawson and Minnie (Holt) Pirtle. Dean served in the Army during World War II, where he bravely fought during the European Theater and Battle of the Bulge. He married Lillie Opal (Cope) on October 14, 1945 in Rossville, GA. He worked for Ford Motor Company in Indianapolis for 30 years before retiring in 1988. Dean attended Bethel Baptist Church and a member of UAW. He enjoyed gardening, reading, cooking, and working in the yard. Dean is survived by his daughter, Rhonda D. (Michael) Richardson of New Palestine; and several nieces, nephews and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Minnie Pirtle; wife, Opal Pirtle; two older brothers; and three sisters. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 30, 2018, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory, 1484 W. US Hwy. 40, Greenfield, IN 46140. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 31, 2018, at 11:30 a.m. at the mortuary. Pastor Tommy Hensley and Dr. Randall Parker will be officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Indianapolis. Memorial contributions may be made by mail to the donor’s favorite charity. Friends may share a memory or a condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com.