Born and raised in the Highlandtown neighborhood of Baltimore, Maryland, in the early 1970's Dean worked part time at Roma. Paciocco worked summers and holidays at Roma continuously through his high school years. After graduation, he considered a career in law enforcement; however, Dean decided to stay with Roma to help the company grow

Dean stayed at Roma and began making sales calls and successfully garnering new business.

In 1994, Dean became a partner in the Roma Sausage Company, learning everything he knew about producing his locally well-known sausage. All the secret sausage recipes were now passed on to Dean.

In July of 2007, Dean became the sole owner of the Roma Sausage Company.

Today, as Partner and President of the new Roma Gourmet Food Company, Dean continues to oversee the sales and everyday production of Roma sausage products.