OBITUARY

Huey (Hugh) Dean Dilbeck, 82, of Juneau, Alaska and Coleman, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born on March 31, 1943, in Cottage Grove, Oregon, to Clinton and Vivian (Cox Swain) Dilbeck, Hugh spent his childhood in both Oregon and Oklahoma. During his high school years in Cottage Grove, he met the love of his life, Donna (Avery) Dilbeck. They married on March 24, 1962, and together raised three daughters.

Hugh spent his career working with automobiles—a lifelong passion—before moving to Juneau, Alaska, where he started his own Autobody Shop, Bear Body Works. For 33 years, he ran the shop with dedication, earning a reputation for quality work, generosity, and his willingness to help anyone in need.

Hugh loved many things in life, but his greatest joys were his family, classic cars, and hunting trips in McGrath with his lifelong friend, John Glass. He had a gift for turning something old into something better than new and a knack for teaching through every experience—especially his legendary driving lessons that began as soon as his kids & grandkids could walk. He created family traditions that will continue for generations, and will be remembered for his quick wit, ever-present toothpicks, spot-on Donald Duck impersonation, and unwavering devotion to his wife.

Hugh is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; daughters Brenda Mickowski (Ted), Melinda White, and Michelle Carson (Scott); grandchildren Mason Morriss, Colt Gudgel, Bronson Cokeley, Averi Cokeley, Korrianna Baggarley (Andrew), Seth White, Chase Mitchell (Lizabeth), Joshua Carson, Abby Lynn (Boaz), Jacob Carson, Aeryn Locks, Michael Carson, and Cole Whiting; nine great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; siblings Mattie Matney; Clint Dilbeck Jr. (Beverly) and Myrl Dilbeck Sr. (Gwen); many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Clinton and Vivian; siblings Henderson Swain, Jessie Swain, Kenneth Swain, Bobbie Swain, & Doyl Dilbeck.

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In keeping with Hugh's wishes, no services will be held. Those wishing to honor his memory may plant a tree in celebration of his love for nature and all things that grow, or make a donation to the Chevrolet Nomad Association in his name.

CONDOLENCES MAY BE SENT TO THE FAMILY BY EMAIL TO: BROWNS@ATOKA.NET.  PLEASE REFERENCE THE NAME OF THE DECEASED IN YOUR CORRESPONDENCE

ARRANGEMENTS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF

BROWN'S FUNERAL SERVICE - ATOKA, OK