Donald LeRoy Bye

Don was born on May 17, 1938, in Pleasant Dale, Nebraska, to Orville and Albie Bye. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1957. Shortly after graduation, he began his dedicated 45-year career at Cushman's, starting in June 1957 and remaining until the company closed in 2002. His strong work ethic and lengthy tenure were a source of great pride throughout his life.

In 1962, Don enlisted in the Army Reserves and proudly served his country until receiving an honorable discharge in 1967.

The true love story of his life began on a blind date, where he met Sharon Harper. They were married on May 29, 1963, and their family soon grew with the birth of their son, Brian, on November 17, 1966, and their daughter, Denise, on October 25, 1969. In 1972, the family moved to Eagle, Nebraska, where Don resided for over five decades until January 2024.

Above all else, Don loved his family and cherished the time he spent with them. He will be remembered as a kind and selfless man who always put others first. In his free time, he was a talented artist, creating metal artwork that won numerous awards at both the Cass County and Nebraska State Fairs. He also enjoyed classic cars and gardening.

Don is survived by his loving daughter, Denise, and her husband, John Dean, of Clive, Iowa; his grandson, Joel Dean, of Lincoln, Nebraska; and his daughter-in-law, Patti (Brian) Bye, of Lincoln, Nebraska. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Marilyn Rainey, and brother-in-law, Thomas Harper, both of California, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon; his son, Brian; his granddaughter, Lindsey Dean; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Leonard (Marge) Bye and Alvin (Ruth) Bye and brother-in-law Robert Harper.

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, October 30, at 2:00 PM at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Capital Humane Society of Lincoln.