Brett Hammell Lutes, of Decatur, passed away peacefully Monday, August 26, 2024, in the early morning hours of his 73rd birthday.

Brett was born on August 26, 1951, in Decatur to Tom and Joanne Lutes.

Graduated from Bellmont High School, class of 1969, Brett was then accepted to Ball State University where he played on the school's baseball and intramural basketball team. He chose a major in Secondary Education. Brett then interned at Muncie Middle School, teaching both History and Earth Science.

An avid lover of sports (especially his Yankees and IU Hoosier Basketball), Brett became a member of a men's softball league, called "Nobody's Seahorse". A team that became a brotherhood and earned him the nickname "Shake". A name that remained throughout his life, as did the friendships from his school days.

A third-generation florist, Brett worked alongside his mom and brother at their family business, Lutes Flower Shop. Brett spent many years delivering flowers and his smile.

In later years, Brett then began employment with Kriegel's Landscaping, a job where he could take in the outdoors. Brett was passionate about enjoying God's creation and it brought him peace. Over the years, he explored any hill, forest, or mountain he could get to. Traveling, hiking, exploring, and camping with his lifelong friends.

Brett was also passionate about his music and combining it with the outdoors.

He followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a member of the Decatur Masonic Lodge # 571. He moved up through the ranks, until he was appointed the prestigious honor of becoming the rank of Grand Master. Brett was also a member of Decatur's VFW Post and Moose Lodge # 1311.

Brett lived his life to the fullest and stayed active throughout his life. Then a few short months ago, Brett discovered he had an illness that quickly progressed.

In his final week, Brett was placed on Home Hospice at the home of his beloved daughter, Lindsey. He was surrounded with love and memories by family and friends every single minute until his last breath. (He was also very happy about the Yankees win, BUB).

Brett is survived by his children, Lindsey Lutes of Decatur and Nick Lutes of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Maxton Loshe and Jackson Lutes; and his beloved dog, Jeter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Lutes and Joanne (Lutes) Hollenbach; brother, Kip Lutes; and Niece, Kimia Pillow.

Brett was the kind of person, whose presence, kindness, humor, and smile… always left you feeling better than he found you. A true gem and "Silver Fox" to the very end. The world needs more of that.

Cremation services will be provided by Divine Mercy Funeral Home. Fort Wayne. As Brett wished, his ashes will then travel one more time to Montana to be released amongst the mountains and forests he loved.

A Celebration of Brett's Life will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 4 p.m. at 1724 Nuttman Ave., US Highway 223 West, Decatur.