Lyle "Dean" Hightree

April 27, 1948 -January 11, 2024

    Lyle Dean Hightree, 75 years of age passed away January 11, 2024, at the V.A. Hospital in Omaha, NE.   Dean was born April 27, 1948, to Paul and Ella Mae (Streeter) Hightree in Decatur, NE. He was raised there and graduated from Decatur High School in 1966. Decatur has always been home.  Dean served in the United States Army. He completed a tour in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969 before returning home.

    On April 17th, 1970, Dean was united in marriage to Wilma Walter. They were blessed with two daughters: Deana and Rochelle. They were his pride and joy. Later in life Dean became a grandfather to four: Dean, Alexzander, Payton and Tanner. He loved the title Papa, but was very excited for the new title of Great Grandpa by Payton’s son, Conrad Dean.

  Dean was a heavy equipment operator and worked for various contractors over the many years. He was then a business manager for Local 571 for 8 years until he happily retired.

   In his retirement he enjoyed his horses and gardening. He was proud to raise a garden big enough to share the harvest with the many family and friends. He loved any activity the grandchildren were involved in. Dean was their biggest cheerleader and supporter. No matter near or far, he was determined to be front and center for all events. This led to countless hours spent at school activities, and in bleacher stadiums. Sore throats were common from all the cheering (yelling is more accurate). This didn’t stop with just his grandchildren, he enjoyed being involved in all of the kids’ events in the family.

  Dean is survived by his Wife, Wilma; children: Deana Hightree (Marvin) of Omaha, Rochelle Schroeder (David) of Blair; 4 grandchildren: Dean Showers, Alexzander Schroeder, Payton Schroeder, Tanner Gatzemeyer; 1 great grandson, Conrad Dean Schroeder-Cemer; sister, Neta Struble (Gordon), sisters-in-law: Sylvia Rollins, Gloria Hightree, and a host of nieces and nephews.  He was proceeded in death by his parents, Paul and Ella Mae Hightree; brother, Denny Hightree.  Dean shared his love and made us smile.

Information taken from May 26,1991 Decatur Alumni Banquet booklet

Occupation:  Heavy Equipment Operator

Spouse:  Wilma (Walter)

Children:  Deana (18), Rochelle (15)

     I have worked for various contractors in and around the Omaha area.  I'm active in my daughter's school activities.  My hobbies include boating, water skiing, and horse racing.