STEELEVILLE – Ralph Dean Hill, 87, of Steeleville, IL, known by most as "Pa" or "Dean", passed away in his home on October 16, 2022.

Dean was born on November 11, 1934, to Hazel Milburn and Charlie Hill in Mulkeytown, IL. He worked at the Consolidated Coal Mine, Burning Star #3, in Walsh, IL, for 25 years. Dean married Arlene Wells-McDowell in 1954 and they moved to Steeleville, IL, where they raised three children, Leslie Dean, Dale Alan, and Leah Marlene.

Dean was a devout Christian and member of the Bethel Presbyterian Church in Sparta, IL. He never met a stranger, and all were welcome in the "Hill" family household. Dean absolutely loved watching SIU Carbondale men's basketball and the St. Louis Cardinals. He had a famous "green thumb" and was always found working in his garden in the summertime. Dean loved the outdoors and held many special memories with his friends and family, going fishing and enjoying beautiful days. Dean was everyone's "Pa" and known most for his special hugs. He was the most loving father, grandfather, and friend to all.

Dean is survived by his children: Leslie (Bonnie) Hill, Dale (Barb) Hill, Leah (Kevin) Kaiser; grandchildren: Deana Hill, Kyle Hill, Nicole (Daniel) Grein, Brittany Gerber (Treavor), Lindsay Parker (Brenden), Maddison Kaiser, Shane (Angie) Caraker; great grandchildren: Taylor (Jayce Cox) Hill, Vance Ellis; in addition, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Arlene, grandson, Ferron, and siblings: Leslie Hill, Verbal Swisher, Pauline Anheuser, Geraldine Kowzan, Norma Harrell, and Billie Casleton.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, October 22, 2022, at Bethel Reformed Presbyterian Church, Sparta, IL, with Rev. Alex Eppstein officiating. A private family interment will be held at a later date. Friends may call from 5 – 8 pm, Friday, October 21, 2022, and Saturday, 7:30 – 9 am, at the funeral home, and 10 – 11 am, at the church. Memorials may be given to Bethel Presbyterian Church, Sparta, and can be mailed to Wilson's Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288.