On May 1, 1960, he married his “bakery sweetheart”, Karen Kay Nelson. They were married for 66 years and raised twin daughters, Janice Kay and Jeanette Lynn. Their life together was filled with blessing upon blessing. In 1967 he accepted Jesus as his personal Savior and lived the rest of his life dedicated to service at his church home. His career path included working for Conoco in their Transportation Dept., Metcalf Funeral Home and Batesville Casket Company. He also spent much of his free time as a “home mechanic” working in his garage on any and every kind of vehicle. After retirement he worked part-time for Quest Diagnostics, Cornhusker International and occasionally hauling grain for Agricross Farms. He got his private pilot’s license in the 60’s and co-owned an airplane for several years. In addition to flying, he enjoyed motorcycling, boating, RV traveling and the family’s annual blue rock shooting competition, which he won on several occasions. Dean spent 12 years in the US Army Reserve, was on the National pistol shooting team and was honorably discharged on May 20, 1968 after attaining the rank of 2nd Lieutenant, But most of all he loved and enjoyed his family; becoming a father, grandfather and great grandfather. A verse from one of his favorite songs says it all … “If my heart had windows, you’d see a heart full of love just for you.”
He is survived by his wife Karen; daughters Janice (Eric) Anders and Jeanette (Layne) Rolofson; grandchildren Joshua (Jenna) Anders, Hannah (David) Harvey; Megan Rolofson, Sarah (Steve) Roker, Jelayna (Daron) Stauffer, Chelsea (Neal) Mattox; great grandchildren Maisie, Tucker & Calvin Anders, Peyton, Camdon & Jadon Roker; Jett & Judd Stauffer; brother Tom (Mary) Beck and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Lyman and Barbara Beck.
Private family visitation will be held Sunday, February 1, 2026 and a Celebration of Life service Tuesday, February 3, 2026 11:00 a.m. at Capitol City Christian Church, 7800 Holdrege Street, Lincoln.
Memorials to Capitol City Christian Church or donor’s choice.