Dean Francis McAllister, 76, passed away peacefully at home on December 31, 2025, surrounded by family.

The firstborn child of Dr. John and Anne McAllister, Dean was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. Dean attended Mt. Lebanon High School before earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame. He went on to complete his master's degree at the University of Pittsburgh. Dean served as Treasurer of Beazer (formerly Koppers) and led the environmental department. Dean later opened a travel agency, blending his entrepreneurial spirit with his passion for travel. He then purchased a blueberry farm in Nova Scotia and devoted more than 30 years to its development, growing it to be one of Nova Scotia's largest blueberry farms.

Dean's interests were as expansive as his spirit. He loved skiing, traveling, racquetball, music, home improvement projects, boating, fishing, and adventure of all kinds. He cherished time spent at his Seven Springs Mountain home, skiing with family and friends, along with summer family vacations to Stone Harbor beach. As a proud father, he encouraged his daughters to work hard, pursue their goals, and enjoy life along the way. His good nature extended to his love of dogs-particularly his most recent, Rocky, whom he shared with his companion, Coleen Chapman.

As with everything else, Dean was a fighter as he faced a diagnosis of stage IV pancreatic cancer. With extraordinary resolve, grit, and optimism, he fought for more than four years-far beyond expectations-meeting each challenge with courage and an unwavering will to keep moving forward.

Dean is survived by his two daughters, Jamie McAllister and Jenna Gannon (William); his grandchildren, Billy and Maverick; and his former wife and enduring friend, Judith McAllister. He is also survived by his brothers, Dr. John McAllister (Sandy) and David McAllister; his sisters, Nancy, Susan, and Margaret McAllister; and many nieces and nephews who will continue to honor his memory.

Dean will be remembered for his resilience, entrepreneurship, and generosity of spirit-and for the way he faced life head-on. His family will always remember the many adventures they had together.

All services will be private.