Dean Wilt, 70, of Watertown, New York, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, at Carthage Area Hospital.

He was born on April 18, 1956, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, the son of Arthur M. and Mary E. (Sine) Wilt. Dean graduated from high school in Altoona and, following graduation, worked for a local antique business before entering the United States Navy. He proudly served for 14 years, serving in Desert Storm, and he received numerous ribbons and commendations before being honorably discharged.

Following his military service, Dean remained in California, where he worked as a security guard at a local mall. He later returned to Altoona, Pennsylvania, where he continued working as a security guard at Logan Valley Mall for several years.

Dean married Candice (Tontarski) Phillips on June 16, 2007, in Watertown at the home of her parents. The couple made their home in Watertown, where Dean worked for Northland Electric in Watertown until the business closed, at which time he retired. Candice worked for 15 years at the Stewart’s located at the corner of Coffeen and Massey Streets before retiring.

Dean was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved listening to country music. He especially cherished spending time with his family and traveling throughout the country to visit loved ones. He also loved his three dogs Zoey, Brie and Bear.

Among his survivors are his beloved wife, Candice J. Wilt; his son and daughter-in-law, Cody and Kayla Wilt of California; a grandchild on the way; three stepsons, Robert (Delina) Phillips of North Carolina, Stephen (Andrea) Phillips of Ohio, and Jonathan Phillips of Watertown; four grandchildren, Logan, Piper, Olivia, and Ryder Phillips; his brother and sister-in-law, Michael (Kim) Wilt of Arizona; and his sister, Michele Hoover of Pennsylvania.

He was predeceased by his parents and a sister, Diane Wilt.

Arrangements are with Hart & Bruce Funeral Home. Burial in Sanford Corners Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family.

Donations in Dean’s memory may be made to All Creatures Big and Small Pet Rescue, P.O. Box 373, Lacona, NY 13083.

Online condolences may be left at www.hartandbrucefh.com⁠.