Photo: SEAN GLADWELL / Moment / Getty Images
Forty years ago, the son of a long-time resident of Mentor-on-the-Lake, Ohio, brought home a sapling for Arbor Day. The father, Gene, planted that sapling and it has since grown into a 40-foot tree in his front yard.
For years, Gene always dreamed of decorating that tall tree at Christmas-time, but it never happened. Despite being 88, Gene still talks about it to this day.
And that's when a heartwarming surprise happened.
This holiday season, his community and family members came together to decorate the tree. Gene's dream was finally realized with the help of donations and support from the community, leading to an emotional and memorable moment as the tree was lit for the first time.
Check out the photos below! And read more HERE.