Donald Frank Hucek, passed away on April 25, 2026, at the age of 81. He was born on February 12, 1945, to the late Marvin and Ruth (Wierichs) Hucek. Don was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, friend, and neighbor. He married June Yunk on September 14, 1968, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Lincoln.

Don lived a life filled with adventure and love, often spent time at the family cabin where countless memories were made. Whether it was fishing in the early morning, hunting during the crisp fall days, or exploring the great outdoors on his snowmobile and four wheeler, Don embraced life wholeheartedly. His love for the outdoors was rivaled only by his devotion to family and faith, which grounded him throughout his journey.

A die-hard Green Bay Packers fan, Don could always be found cheering on his team. His sense of humor was legendary, often bringing smiles and laughter to those around him, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Don was also a skilled woodworker, crafting many beautiful pieces. Alongside him during many of his ventures was the companionship of his dogs, who were his faithful friends and constant sources of joy.

Don requested that we share this information about his military service:

“I was drafted into the Army Sept. 14th 1965. I had basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and advanced Infantry at Fort Ord, California, where I trained to be a mortarman. I served the one year tour of duty from Feb 1966 to Feb 1967. I was a mortarman on the 4.2” mortar, commonly called the 4-duce mortar. Our base camp was at Lai Khe, approx. 35 miles north of Saigon. In Feb 1967, when my 1-yr tour of duty was served, I returned home for a 30 day leave. Then I went to Fort Campbell, KY where I worked in the post meat plant cutting for the mess halls on post. On Sept 14th 1967, my (ETS) Enlisted Time was Served. While in Vietnam, I was in the 1st Infantry Division (The Big Red One).”

Don is survived by his wife, June; his children, Vicki (Eric) Kramer, Steve Hucek; grandchildren, Claudia, John and Allison; siblings, Jean Neuville, Al (Peggy) Hucek, Gail (Bill) Popp, Sue (Steve) Pillow, Jeff (Laurie) Hucek; in-laws, Jerry (Sue) Yunk, Joe Yunk, Julie (Randy) Jacobs; and brother-in-law, Ron Holtz; and extended family of nieces, nephews, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Ruth (Wierichs) Hucek; father-and mother-in-law, Phillip and Marie Yunk; siblings and in-laws, Jean (Harvey) Paul, Joyce (David) Kirchman, Jim Yunk, Jack (Linda) Yunk, Joan Holtz, and one nephew.

Visitation will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 9:00-11:00 am at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church in Maplewood. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am with Fr. Anthony Birdsall officiating. Burial will follow at the Old St. Mary Cemetery on Hwy 42. Online condolence messages may be shared at KinnardFCS.com. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established in Don’s name.

Thank you to all the medical staff who cared for Don during his final days.