NOTE: I have cancelled this. Deans brother has requested NO GoFundMe as they plan to honor Dean another way. To all those who donated, you're wonderful and expect a refund once GoFundMe support helps with that. - refunds within 7-10 business days per GoFundMe

I’m just another ref who had the privilege of knowing Dean Paganelis. But if you spent any time at the rink, you knew Dean—because Dean was always there. Over the years, he officiated an incredible 6,255 games at Sharks Ice (SIAHL and various other leagues within), a testament to his dedication, his work ethic, and his love for the game. His first recorded game as a referee at Sharks Ice was on March 1, 2009, and his final game was on March 17, 2025—more than 16 years of service to the sport and the community. In a world where officials often go unnoticed, Dean left an impression on all of us.

One thing I’ll always remember about Dean was his ritual with his gloves. Most refs don’t wear them, but Dean did, and he owned it. Between games, I’d see him pull out his blow dryer and warm them up, making sure they were just right before heading back onto the ice. It was such a classic Dean moment—thoughtful, particular, and quietly doing things his way. We all gave him a hard time about it, but honestly, it was just one of those things that made him who he was. It’s a small memory, but it sticks with me, like so many other moments shared in the ref room.

He wasn’t the type to seek attention—he simply showed up, put in the work, and treated everyone with fairness and respect. He would take game after game, night after night, never complaining, except maybe about the long walk to Tech CU. He carried himself with quiet confidence, never rattled, always in control.

But above all, Dean was a good man. The kind you were always happy to see when you walked into the ref room. He carried a quiet kindness with him, never asking for much, but always giving in his own way. The rink will not be the same without him.

Dean will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace. If you, like me, had the privilege of knowing him, then you know his family could use our support right now. Let’s honor him as he deserves—anything helps.