PINEHURST - Dean R. Paquette, 80, died Monday, Jan. 17, 2011 at First Health Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, at Boles Funeral Home in Pinehurst.

He was born in Detroit, Mich. and spent his first 16 years in Ferndale, Mich.  He enlisted in the Army at age 16 in 1946.  He served with the Corps of Engineers in assignments in the Southeast US and Greenland. 

Col. Paquette served overseas in Korea, Indonesia, Viet Nam and Australia. He held a bachelors degree from the University of Maryland and a masters degree from George Washington University.

He had various command and staff assignments.  His awards and decorations include three awards of the Legion of Merit, The Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, and numerous other commendations and service medals.

He retired from the Army in 1976 and retired from Control Data Corporation in the Washington Office in 1991.

Surviving: his wife Emma of Pinehurst; daughters, Neta of Louisburg and Diane of Greenville; son, Kingsley; sister, Ann Shriner of Royal Oak, Mich.; and five grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, 7020 AC Skinner Pkwy, Ste. 100, Jacksonville, FL 32256.  Online condolences can be made at www.bolesfuneralhome.com. 

Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst is assisting the family.