Dean Leroy Neb, known to many as Papa, Dad, friend, and proudly as the "#1 John Deere Man," passed away on June 13, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born in Fort Morgan, Colorado, on February 28, 1945, Dean was raised in Wiggins, Colorado, and graduated from Wiggins High School in 1963. He was preceded in death by his parents, Doris and Dave Neb.

Dean spent his entire life farming. He often said, "It's a hard life, but it's the best life." Farming wasn't just what Dean did—it was who he was. Long before sunrise, he was already hard at work, and many evenings the work wasn't done until long after others had gone home. He was a man who understood responsibility, commitment, and the value of an honest day's work.

In addition to farming, Dean, along with his good friend Ray Thomas, co-own Just 1 More, a place where friends gather, stories are shared, and laughter is plentiful. Whether stopping in for a drink, a conversation, or simply to catch up with old friends, many find a second home there.

Dean is survived by his children, Sheila Goslee and Douglas Groves. He was a proud grandfather to Nicholas Goslee, Amberly Goslee, Colin Goslee, John Groves, and Jack Groves.

His greatest joy in recent years was becoming a great-grandfather to Everett Jase and Leighton Daniel, who lovingly gave him the nickname "Papa Tractor." Three days after Dean's passing, Leighton welcomed a new baby brother, Weston Dean. While Dean never had the chance to meet him, Weston carries both his name and a piece of his legacy. It is a reminder of life's beautiful circle—that even as we say goodbye to one generation, another begins, carrying forward the love, traditions, and memories that connect us all.

He is also survived by his sisters, Dorothy Taylor, Shirley (Allen) Hollingsworth, and Sherrie (Joe) Ward; his brothers, Richard (Betty) Neb and Kenny (Linda) Neb; and nine beloved nieces and nephews.

Dean was known for his generosity, his strong work ethic, and his unwavering willingness to help others. He gave freely of both his time and resources, never hesitating to lend a hand to someone in need. Growing up, his family knew that when the sun came up, Dean was already gone to work. He spent his life doing what he loved and what needed to be done.

He was stubborn, and anyone who knew him would agree with that. But that same determination helped him build a life he was proud of and provide for the people he loved. More importantly, he was a man who loved deeply. His family is his greatest pride and know they were loved.

Dean was a faithful member of Wiggins Community Church and a familiar face around town, especially during morning coffee gatherings at Stub's. Whether talking crops, weather, family or life, Dean never met a stranger for long.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Wiggins Community Church. Light refreshments will be served downstairs immediately following the service. A Celebration of Life will then be held at Just 1 More.

Family and friends are encouraged to join us, share stories, raise a glass, and celebrate a life well lived. We know there are many stories to tell.

Memorial donations may be made to Wiggins Community Church, 423 Dickson Street, Wiggins, CO 80654

Though Dean has taken his final ride home, his legacy lives on in the fields he worked, the lives he touched, the stories that will continue to be told, and the family he loved so fiercely.

Rest easy, Papa Tractor.