Milt Dean, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime Kenosha resident, has been named the first recipient of the Kenosha County Veteran of the Year Award. The announcement was made by County Executive Samantha Kerkman, who will present the award at the annual Veterans Appreciation Summer Picnic on Friday, May 30, at Kenosha County Veterans Memorial Park.
The new award aims to recognize veterans for their achievements and community contributions after their military service. Dean’s record includes more than five decades in education, active involvement in veterans’ organizations, extensive blood donations, and other forms of community service.
“We received many outstanding nominations for this award, but Milt’s many contributions to the community and his passion for education and advocacy for veterans put him above all others,” Kerkman said. “Milt’s spirit of service is what this award is all about, and he is a most-deserving recipient of the inaugural honor.”
Dean’s wife of 54 years, Jackie Dean, nominated him for the award. She described him as “a proud veteran, loyal to both our country and our county.”
“I feel very honored and fortunate being chosen as the first recipient of the Kenosha County Veteran of the Year Award,” Dean said. “I’d like to personally thank County Executive Kerkman for initiating this new award honoring our valued commodity, veterans.”
A graduate of Bradford High School—one of Kenosha County’s largest high schools with an enrollment of 1,448 students in 2023-24 according to state data (https://dpi.wi.gov/)—Dean went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee before being drafted into military service. He served with the 93rd Engineers in Vietnam from 1966 to 1968.
After returning home, Dean started a family and began a 34-year teaching career at Prairie Lane Elementary School. He was recognized as Teacher of the Year by Kenosha Unified School District in 1986. During his time at Prairie Lane, he led after-school sports programs and continues instructing today after coming out of retirement several years ago.
Dean also sponsors youth baseball through American Legion Post 21 and serves on the board for Little Leaguers of Kenosha. He has donated more than 15 gallons of AB negative blood over his lifetime—a rare type often used for children in need.
In addition to his work with youth, Dean has helped raise thousands for Special Olympics and organized bellringing efforts for the Salvation Army. He has mentored students at Southport Elementary School and Armitage Academy.
His involvement with local veterans’ groups includes membership in American Legion Post 21, Navy Club Ship 40, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1865. With these organizations he helps coordinate Memorial Day and Veterans Day events, visits nursing homes to deliver gifts to veterans during holidays, and participates in weekly gatherings such as Heroes Café at Festival Foods.
“When it comes to veterans in our community, actively serving the community, Milt is second to none,” said Jennifer Blasi, Director of Kenosha County Veterans Services.
Jackie Dean summarized her husband’s impact: “From city to county, his strength of conviction has benefitted thousands, of all age groups.”
The third annual Veterans Appreciation Picnic will take place at noon Friday at Veterans Honor Plaza within Kenosha County Veterans Memorial Park. Free transportation from Festival Foods will be provided by Dousman Transport Co., with space available on a first-come basis. Those seeking transportation are asked to contact the county’s Veterans Service Office.
Kenosha County schools serve a diverse student body; during the current school year white students made up about 55.6% (14,124) while Hispanic students were nearly one-quarter (25.7%) (https://dpi.wi.gov/). Bradford High School remains among top-enrolled schools alongside Indian Trail High School & Academy (2,001 students) and Tremper High School (1,458 students) (https://dpi.wi.gov/).
